Media data sharing between media processing devices

ABSTRACT

A wireless media player and a related system and methodology are disclosed. One aspect of the wireless media player system pertains to a virtual connector system, apparatus, and method for the automatic establishment of wireless connectivity with other electronic devices. In one embodiment, the media player device employs the use of integrated Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to exchange communication settings, media capability, and other parameters with an external device that also has integrated RFID technology. The automatic exchange of settings and other information via a proximity-based RFID data exchange allows a media player to quickly establish a secure communication link with another device via a commonly supported wireless protocol such as Ultra Wideband (UWB) or Bluetooth. Another aspect of the media player system pertains to a method of using the captured media capability of the connecting device to customize certain menu options and software parameters in the media player.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present invention is a continuation of prior application Ser. No.13/975,504 filed Aug. 26, 2013, which is a continuation of priorapplication Ser. No. 13/556,445, filed on Jul. 24, 2012, which is acontinuation of and claims benefit of priority to U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 11/127,979, filed on May 12, 2005, now allowed, theentire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to wireless media players andrelated systems. More particularly, the present invention relates to awireless media system and player having improved features forestablishing wireless connectivity with various electronic devices.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The ever increasing speed and the reduced size of electronic componentshas contributed to the proliferation of consumer electronic devicescapable of processing digital media such as audio, video, images,animation, presentations, and other content. Handheld media playersinclude for example, cellular phones, personal digital assistants(PDAs), MP3 players, video players, game players, cameras, radios,televisions, CD/DVD players, Personal Video Recorders (PVRs), etc. Manyexisting media players are able to store large amounts of digitalcontent, wirelessly connect to the Internet and exchange data over shortranges with other electronic devices.

It is often desirable to interact on a frequent basis with multipleelectronic devices that contain different types of digital media. Forexample, users might have digital music stored in a pocket-size MP3player, photos or video stored in a cellular phone, presentations storedin a personal digital assistant (PDA), or a variety of other digitalmedia and applications stored on other portable electronic devices. Thestandardization of file formats for a variety of media types and theresulting availability of processing support for these media types hasallowed users to transfer and share digital information between devicesmore readily.

A problem remains in that getting personal electronic devices tocommunicate with one another in order to transfer or access informationis typically a cumbersome and time-consuming process. In some cases, adirect physical connection must be established between two devices priorto and during data transfer or access using, for example, a dockingstation interface, FireWire connector, Universal Serial Bus (USB)connector, or some type of cable. All of the above connectivity methodsimpose difficulties in that the devices must be directly attached ortethered to one another while communicating.

In other instances, connectivity between devices can be establishedusing infra-red capability integrated into the devices. A majorshort-range infra-red (IR) communications network protocol, defined bythe Infra-red Device Association (IrDA), is known as the IrDA standard.Infra-red technology restricts mobility by requiring the devices to bein direct line-of-sight to each other's infra-red port.

Wireless connectivity offers the most flexible means by which to connectdevices and exchange information. Short-range wireless capability usingstandards such as Bluetooth, 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, Ultra-Wideband(UWB), and others are presently being integrated into media playerdevices. Wireless technology obviates the need for peripherals such asdocking stations, cables, and adapters and provides for mobility withina certain range.

However, one issue with wireless device-to-device connectivity is thatsome form of user configuration is typically required. For example,communication settings, software settings, security settings, and otherinformation is typically required to be exchanged between and among thedevices which are to communicate. In most cases, user configuration inthis manner makes data exchange between the media devices insecure andtime consuming. Known over-the-air techniques for configuration betweentwo devices have also proven to be generally insecure.

As devices such as cellular phones, PDAs, MP3 players, and cameras andother handheld devices capable of storing and playing media become moreprevalent and offer more and more features, it is increasingly desirableto provide interconnection between these devices for convenience and totake advantage of the rich feature sets available. Accordingly, there isa need in the art for an improved method, apparatus, and system forwirelessly connecting these devices and discovering each others'communication, media processing, and other capabilities. There is afurther need for a solution that allows for the automatic establishmentof a secure wireless connection between a source device and a targetdevice and the automatic transmission of certain media assets to thetarget device. There is also a need for a solution that allows wirelessmedia player devices to connect with and transmit media assets to otherdevices via the Internet.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is therefore a primary object of the present invention to provide asystem and methodology which improves upon prior art systems andmethodologies and their related drawbacks as described above.

It is another object of the present invention to provide an efficient,user-friendly and automated methodology by which two or more devices canestablish wireless communication and make each other aware of devicecapabilities, available media types, communication protocols and otherinformation specific to the devices and the content stored thereon.

It is another object of the present invention to use Radio FrequencyIdentification (RFID) to automatically setup and establish a wirelessconnection between at least one source device and one target device.

These and other objects of the present invention are obtained throughthe use of a novel wireless media player system and related methodology.The wireless media system of the present invention includes a handheldmedia player (source device) capable of transmitting and receivinginformation over a wireless connection with other electronic devices(target devices). In one embodiment, the media player is able tosimultaneously communicate with multiple target devices in closeproximity using one or more supported short-range wireless protocols. Inanother embodiment, the media player may connect with one or more targetdevices through the Internet or another network, by connecting to acellular network or a local wireless access point.

The media player of the present invention preferably includes integratedRadio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology. More specifically, themedia player includes an RFID Tag-Reader Module that is capable offunctioning as both an RFID tag and an RFID reader. According to apreferred embodiment, the RFID Tag-Reader Module allows interoperabilitywith all RF 13.56 MHz readers and tags compatible with existinginternational standards, including ISO 14443 A/B, ISO 15693, FeliCa™,and NFC.

The RFID Tag-Reader Module also preferably includes an RFID Tag-ReaderController that manages all communication between the media player's CPUand the RFID Tag-Reader Module's functional components. In addition tothe hardware interface between the media player's CPU and the RFIDTag-Reader Controller, an application program interface (API) layersupports communication between applications operating on the terminaland the RFID module. An RFID activation button may be integrated in themedia player. This activation button is capable of activating the readerfunctionality of the RFID Tag-Reader Module when pressed.

The invention relates, in another embodiment, to a method of using RFIDto capture the media processing capability and other parameters of atarget device in order to customize certain menu options and softwaresettings in the media player. The method includes for example,recognizing the media processing capability of the target device, andcustomizing the user interface on the media player so that it onlydisplays media categories and files that could be processed by thetarget device if transmitted.

The invention relates, in another embodiment, to a method of using theRFID connector system to quickly establish a wireless communication linkwith a target device and automatically transmitting certain media assetsto it once connectivity has been established. The method includes, inone embodiment, automatically transmitting media which is beingviewed/played on the media player at the time of an RFID exchange withthe target device.

The invention relates, in another embodiment, to a method oftransmitting media to a target device for viewing or listening, andusing controls on the media player, or software operating therein, toalter the viewing/listening experience on the target device. The methodincludes, for example, transmitting audio or video from the media playerto the target device, and using, the “play”, “pause”, “fast forward”,“rewind”, “stop”, “skip back”, and “skip forward” keys on the mediaplayer to adjust the viewing/listening experience of the media beingtransmitted and presented on the target device.

The invention relates, in another embodiment, to a method of creating,storing, and accessing profiles for target devices that have previouslyexchanged communication settings, media processing capabilities, andother information with the media player. Profiles can be used toestablish automatic connectivity between the media player and one ormore target devices that are in proximity via a common short-rangewireless communication protocol. The method includes, receiving deviceinformation, communication settings, media processing capabilities, andother parameters associated with the target device and using theinformation to establish a profile for the target device on the mediaplayer. The device profile can be enabled at the user's option toautomatically detect the target device when within a certain proximityto the media player. At that point wireless connectivity between devicescan be automatically established. Alternatively, the profile could alsobe used to manually establish wireless connectivity with a target deviceat the user's discretion.

The invention relates, in another embodiment, to a method of selectingone or more Internet-connected target devices for the delivery ofcertain media assets. The method includes, selecting a media source,selecting specific media assets, selecting an address for the targetdevice, resolving the address to an Internet routable address, andestablishing a peer-to-peer communication session with the target deviceover the Internet.

These and other advantages and features of the present invention aredescribed herein with specificity so as to make the present inventionunderstandable to one of ordinary skill in the art.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention is illustrated by way of example, and not by wayof limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings and in whichlike reference numerals refer to similar elements and in which:

FIG. 1 is a functional representation of media player terminalinterfacing with a wireless headphone unit, in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2A is a front-side perspective view of a media player terminal, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2B is a representation of the keypad interface of a media playerterminal, in accordance with another embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 2C is a front-side perspective view of a media player terminal withan alpha-numeric keypad, in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 3A is a left-side perspective view of a media player terminal, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3B is a back-side perspective view of a media player terminal, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3C is a top-side perspective view of a media player terminal, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3D is a bottom-side perspective view of a media player terminal, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4A depicts a functional diagram illustrating one embodiment of aRFID tag-reader module according to the invention.

FIG. 4B depicts a functional diagram illustrating an alternativeembodiment of a RFID tag-reader module according to the invention.

FIG. 5 is a functional diagram of a media player terminal interfacingwith a wireless headphone unit, in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 6 is a functional diagram of two media player terminals wirelesslyinterfacing with one another and their respective headphone units, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a table depicting the message components and example contentof a RFID message exchange between two electronic devices, in accordancewith one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8A is a flow diagram of a wireless transmission method using RFIDsetup, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8B is a flow diagram of an alternative wireless transmission methodusing RFID setup, according to the invention.

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of a wireless transmission method via awireless network and the Internet, in accordance with one embodiment ofthe present invention.

FIG. 10 is a functional diagram of a media player terminal capturing avideo feed from an external video recording device, and transmitting thesame video content via a cellular network and the Internet to anothermedia player terminal, which further transmits the content to atelevision, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a functional diagram of a media player terminal with anembedded video recorder, filming a city scene, and transmitting thevideo content via a cellular network and the Internet to two separatemedia player terminals connected to different mobile operator networks,in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is an illustration of an exemplary user interface screendepicting device categories, in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 13 is an illustration of an exemplary user interface screendepicting one specific device profile category in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is an illustration of an exemplary user interface screendepicting messaging that indicates that the media player terminal iswirelessly connecting to a target device, in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is an illustration of an exemplary user interface screendepicting options for Media Sources that can be selected in order toselect specific media assets for transmission to a target device, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is an illustration of an exemplary user interface screendepicting Live Content options that can be selected for transmission toa target device, in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 17 is an illustration of an exemplary user interface screendepicting Internet Content options from which media assets can beselected for transmission to a target device, in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is an illustration of an exemplary user interface screendepicting Stored Content options from which media assets can be selectedfor transmission to a target device, in accordance with one embodimentof the present invention.

FIG. 19 is an illustration of an exemplary user interface screendepicting Video Files that can be selected for transmission to a targetdevice, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 20 a front-side perspective view of a media player terminal with anexemplary user interface screen depicting a video file being transmittedto a target device, in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention for a media player system, apparatus, and methodis now described in specific terms sufficient to teach one of skill inthe practice the invention herein. In the description that follows,numerous specific details are set forth by way of example for thepurposes of explanation and in furtherance of teaching one of skill inthe art to practice the invention. It will, however, be understood thatthe invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed anddiscussed herein and that the invention can be practiced without suchspecific details and/or substitutes therefor. The present invention islimited only by the appended claims and may include various otherembodiments which are not particularly described herein but which remainwithin the scope and spirit of the present invention.

One important feature of the present invention is the use of RFIDtechnology to establish wireless communication between a diverse set ofdevices. The methods by which RFID tags and RFID readers interact andcommunicate are well established and documented. The rising use of RFIDtechnology, especially 13.56 MHz technology, for electronic payments andother applications has promoted standardization efforts to establish abroadly applicable communications framework between RFID tags and RFIDreaders.

One such standard was established by European Computer ManufacturersAssociation (ECMA) International based in Geneva, Switzerland, and isknown as the Near Field Communication standard (ECMA-340). The Standarddefines communication modes for Near Field Communication Interface andProtocol (NFCIP-1) for use with RFID tags and readers. It also definesboth the Active and the Passive communication modes of Near FieldCommunication Interface and Protocol (NFCIP-1) to realize acommunication network using Near Field Communication devices fornetworked products and also for consumer equipment.

This Standard specifies, in particular, modulation schemes, codings,transfer speeds, and frame format of the RF interface, as well asinitialization schemes and conditions required for data collisioncontrol during initialization. Furthermore, this Standard defines atransport protocol including protocol activation and data exchangemethods. NFC is also compatible with the broadly established contactlesssmart card infrastructure based on ISO 14443 A, as well as the SonyFeliCa™ protocol. This allows electronic devices with integrated NFCtechnology to perform multiple functions such as acting as an electronickey or wallet.

NFC can be used as a setup tool for quickly establishing wirelesscommunication between two devices, acting as a virtual connector.Bringing two electronic devices with NFC technology into close vicinityallows the devices to automatically exchange communication settings andother information in complete security via RF signaling. This exchangeof information via short-range RF allows the devices to quicklyconfigure and establish a connection via Bluetooth or other wirelessprotocols supported by both devices. As discussed below, in oneembodiment of the present invention, NFC may be used in connection withthe teachings presented herein for establishing and maintainingcommunication between and among a wide variety of electronic devices.

A general discussion of the present invention is now provided and isthereafter followed by a detailed description of each of the componentsand functions of the invention according to specific preferredembodiments.

FIG. 1 is a functional representation of the components in a mediaplayer 100 with cellular phone capability, in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention. The term “media player” generallyrefers to electronic devices that are capable of processing media suchas audio, video, images, presentations, animation, and Internet content,as for example, cellular phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs),music players, game players, video players, cameras, and the like. Insome cases, these media players are single-functionality devices (e.g. amedia player dedicated to playing digital video) and in other casesthese media players are multi-functional devices (e.g. a media playerthat is capable of playing music, displaying video, presenting images,and the like). In either case, these devices are generally portable soas to allow a user to, for example, listen to music, play video, takepictures, and engage in multi-player gaming without the need for a wiredconnection to some other electronic device. It should not be presumedfor purposes of the following description that the term “media player”necessarily refers to a device which is capable of playing a particularmedia.

In the illustrated representation of FIG. 1, media player 100 is apocket sized device that allows a user to process and store a largecollection of digital audio/music, video, images, presentations,animation, Internet content, and other types of media. Media player 100is capable of processing these media types using functionalityintegrated in its resident operating system. In an alternate embodiment,media processing is handled by a separate application which operates onthe device 100, such as media manager application 120. The media managerapplication 120 allows incoming or resident media to be “played”,“viewed” or otherwise manipulated on the media player 100 and alsoallows for the transmission of media assets to other devices inproximity via short-range RF or via the Internet. The media managerapplication 120 also performs other media processing functions, asdescribed below, such as dynamically converting media file formats,providing control functionality for adjusting the viewing/listeningattributes on the media player 100 or a target device, organizing mediaassets into categories so they can be easily located, and providing asearch engine for locating specific media assets using a variety ofattributes. As mentioned above, the media manager functionality can beintegrated with the operating system operating on the device 100 whilestill remaining within the scope and spirit of the invention. Mediaplayer 100 may also include additional functionality for placing phonecalls, video teleconferencing, recording audio/video, taking pictures,storing a calendar, establishing a phone list/directory, storing andexecuting multi-player network games, text/media messaging,accessing/browsing the Internet, facilitating computations using acalculator, transacting at a point-of-sale location using a digitalwallet application and the RFID capability of the player 100, completinge-commerce transactions over-the-air, and the like. Media player 100also provides the user with optional password security in order toprotect confidential information stored in the device. In anotherembodiment, an integrated biometric fingerprint reader provides enhancedsecurity for protecting the media player 100 against unauthorized use.

Media player 100 includes a casing that encloses various internalelectrical components (including integrated circuit chips and othercircuitry) that provide computing operations for the media player 100.In addition, the casing may also define the exterior shape, form, andcolor of the media player. The integrated circuit chips and othercircuitry contained within the housing may include a microprocessor(e.g., CPU 109), memory (e.g., ROM, RAM, flash) 106, a rechargeablepower supply 103 (e.g., rechargeable lithium polymer battery), a circuitboard, a hard drive 112, and various input/output (I/O) supportcircuitry 116. The input/output (I/O) assembly 116 allows Media Player100 to connect to a docking station, or connect to otherdevices/peripherals via a FireWire port, USB port, PS/2 port, serialport, parallel port, network interface port, infrared (IR), audio jack,video jack, and the like. The I/O assembly 116 is generically shown inFIG. 1 since the media player 100 could employ a wide variety ofconnector/port options for interfacing with external hardware. Multipleconnector/port types could be integrated into media player 100.

As shown in FIG. 1, media player 100 includes a microprocessor 109configured to execute instructions and to carry out various operations.In most instances, microprocessor 109 executes instructions under thecontrol of an operating system or other software (e.g., media manager).The processing function in media player 100 can also be performed bydual-processor chips or multi-processor chips for higher performance.

The electrical components contained within media player 100 may alsoinclude components for inputting or outputting audio such as a speaker101, microphone 115, and an amplifier and a digital signal processor(DSP) 110. Media player 100 may further comprise additional componentsfor capturing images such as camera 104 (e.g., charge coupled device(CCD) or complimentary oxide semiconductor (CMOS)) or optics (e.g.lenses, splitters, filters). Similarly, media player 100 may alsoinclude components for sending and receiving media (e.g. antenna 117,and transceivers 105 and 108, etc.).

As shown in FIG. 1, media player 100 includes a display screen andrelated circuitry 102 for displaying a graphical user interface thatallows the user to interact with the device. The display screen 102 alsoallows a user to visually see data input into terminal via keypad 111and other information (e.g., video, images, text, objects). By way ofexample, the display screen 102 may be a liquid crystal display (LCD).In one particular embodiment, the display screen is a high-resolutioncolor display that provides visibility in daylight as well as low-lightconditions. The display screen 102 supports “touch-screen” data inputusing a stylus or other object.

A short-range transceiver 108 and antenna 117 provide wirelessconnectivity with external devices or access points using supportedcommunications protocols (e.g., Bluetooth, 802.11a/b/g/n, UltraWideband, Wireless USB, 802.15.3/WiMedia, Wireless 1394, WirelessFireWire, WiMax, and 802.1 5.4/ZigBee). The short-range transceiver 108and antenna 117 system also support broadcast standards such as AM, FM,UHF, VHF, and HDTV. Support for these broadcast standards allows themedia player 100 to receive and broadcast radio and television signalsover a short-range.

The short-range transceiver 108 and antenna system 117 are specificallydesigned to support the widest array of communication protocols andbroadcast standards in order to allow the media player 100 to establishcommunication with a multiplicity of devices now available or whichlater become available. The short-range transceiver 108, antenna system117, and other components within media player 100, are also designed toallow for the simultaneous communication with multiple devices, andusing multiple communication standards and broadcast standards.

The antenna used in short-range communication is not the same antennaused in communication with a wide area cellular network, and as such arerepresented in FIG. 1 separately, but are enclosed in the same antennaassembly 117. As such, generic references to antenna 117 may referherein to the short-range transceiver antenna or the network transceiverantenna. The antenna assembly 117 is represented in FIG. 1 and mayextend out from the main body of the media player 100. However, in apreferred embodiment the actual antenna system 117 in media player 100is enclosed within the casing of the media player 100.

A receiver for satellite-based Digital Audio Radio Services (DARS) couldalso be integrated in the media player 100. The receiver allows thedevice 100 to receive programming in the “S” band (2.3 GHz) spectrum,broadcast by companies such as XM and Sirius.

Short-range transceiver 108 interacts with a CPU 109 for implementingshort-range communications protocols and processing messages exchangedbetween other electronic devices and the media player 100. CPU 109 islinked to a volatile or dynamic random access memory (DRAM) 106. CPU 109executes programs stored in a non-volatile or read only memory 106 andprovides instructions for managing and controlling the operating ofmedia player 100. CPU 109 is also connected to network transceiver 105for interacting with a cellular network, such as a Global System Mobile(GSM) network and the like via antenna 117. Media player 100 is able toaccess the Internet through the cellular network, or through a wirelessaccess point using short range transceiver 108 and a supportedcommunications protocol (e.g., WiFi).

In one embodiment, media player 100 functions as a wireless terminalthat has one or more E.164 phone numbers, Uniform Resource Identifiers(URIs), or other types of unique addresses that can be resolved over theInternet associated with it. Media player 100 may also have a built inTCP/IP stack that supports communication over Internet Protocol(IP)-based networks. Preferably, media player 100 supports both the IPv4and IPv6 network addressing schemes.

In accordance with the invention, media player 100 includes a SessionInitiation Protocol (SIP) application stack for multimedia communicationover the Internet. Media player 100 preferably also supports otherapplication layer protocols such as H.323, Real-time Transport Protocol(RTP), HTTP, SMTP, FTP, DNS, and DHCP.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, media player100 is fully compliant with 3GPP and 3GPP2 standards. 3GPP and 3GPP2 areworldwide standards for the creation, delivery and playback ofmultimedia over 3rd generation, high-speed wireless networks. Defined bythe 3rd Generation Partnership Project and 3rd Generation PartnershipProject 2 respectively, these standards seek to provide uniform deliveryof rich multimedia over newly evolved, broadband mobile networks (3rdgeneration networks) to the latest multimedia-enabled devices, such asmedia player 100.

In accordance with the invention, an RFID Tag-Reader Module 113 isintegrated into media player 100. RFID Tag-Reader Module 113 is providedso that, among other things, media player 100 can rapidly exchangeinformation with an electronic device that is in close proximity andwhich also has integrated RFID technology. Information exchanged betweenmedia player 100 and a target device via RFID can allow for the fast andautomatic set-up of wireless connectivity between media player 100 andvarious target devices. As previously stated, RFID Tag-Reader Module 113can also be used in connection with other applications available throughmedia player 100 such as electronic payments at the point-of-sale andsecure key access to buildings, cars, etc.

RFID Tag-Reader Module 113 is connected to CPU 109. RFID Tag-ReaderModule 113 comprises a radio frequency ID transponder which conforms tothe principals of RFID technology and known standards. The RFIDTag-Reader Module 113 also includes a reader component used fortransmitting interrogation signals via its antenna to an externalelectronic device's RFID tag when in close proximity, and receiving aresponse signal from the external device's RFID tag. RFID Tag-ReaderModule 113 uses media player's 100 internal power supply 103 as a powersource for transmitting interrogation signals to a target device.

In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, media player 100 hasan integrated RFID activation button 118 which is visible on theexterior of the device. RFID activation button 118 is shown separatelyfrom the generic keypad components 111 shown in FIG. 1 in order tohighlight its specific function versus other buttons/controls which areincorporated in media player 100. RFID activation button 118, like allother keypad 111 components, interfaces with CPU 109. When RFIDactivation button 118 is pressed, CPU 109 signals RFID Tag-Reader Module113 to disable its RFID tag component and activate its reader componentin order to transmit interrogation signals to one or more targetdevices. In one embodiment, this condition is maintained for as long asRFID activation button 118 remains depressed. In an alternativeembodiment, RFID activation button 118 can be pressed and immediatelyreleased, and the condition of the disabled RFID tag and activatedreader is maintained until such time the reader sends interrogationsignals and receives a response from a target device. Upon receiving aresponse, RFID Tag-Reader Module 113 returns to its normal state wherebythe RFID tag component is active (and awaiting an interrogation signal),and the RFID reader component is disabled. Yet another possibleembodiment for the function of RFID activation button 118 is wherein thereader function is activated and the tag function is disabled for somepredetermined length of time following the pressing of button 118 afterwhich time, RFID Tag-Reader Module 113 reverts to its normal operationmode.

According to one important aspect of the present invention, RFIDTag-Reader Module 113 and RFID activation button 118 can be usedtogether, with the media manager application 120 operating on mediaplayer 100 as a virtual connector system for automatic setup andestablishment of a wireless connection with one or more target devices,and transmission of certain media assets.

While media player 100 can also connect headphones and speakers via I/Oassembly 116, media player is particularly well suited to interface withwireless sound output devices such as wireless headphone unit 152 inFIG. 1. Media player 100 can wirelessly transmit audio signals via shortrange transceiver 108 to one or more devices that support a commoncommunications protocol.

FIG. 2A is a front-side perspective view of media player 100 inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Media player100 has a large high-resolution color display screen 102 which takes upsubstantially most of the surface space on the front-side of mediaplayer 100.

According to one embodiment, on the left-side of media player 100, areplaced a set of integrated buttons. For example, RFID activation button118 (discussed above) is shown at the top left. Below it are two volumecontrol buttons 183 and 184 for adjusting audio output from the player'sintegrated speaker system 101 or an external audio output deviceconnected to media player 100. The top volume control button 183 is forincreasing sound volume, and the bottom button 184 is for lowering thesound volume.

Multiple speakers 101 integrated in player 100 offer a rich surroundsound capability. In one embodiment, speakers 101 are situated at thetop of the media player terminal, and provide audio output through anopening that extends from the top left of the unit to the top right.Digital audio processor 110 in media player 100 supports Dolby™ and THX™audio technologies.

Also present at the bottom of media player 100 is the keypad interface195 used to interact with the operating system and software loaded inmedia player 100. Keypad interface 195 buttons are configured to providecontrol for making selections or issuing commands associated withoperating the media player 100. Contained in the keypad interface 195 atthe bottom are two buttons 185 & 186 used for selecting options thatappear directly above the respective buttons in display screen 102 andgraphical user interface (known sometimes as “soft keys”). At the centerof keypad interface 195 is a miniature joy stick 190. Joy stick 190 canbe pressed down as a button and used as a way to make menu selections inconnection with the graphical user interface.

Joy stick 190 may also function as a play/pause button when used in thesame manner with the media manager application 120. Joy stick 190 canalso be used to navigate menus by leaning the stick upwards, downwards,to the right, or left in order to make certain selections. Alsocontained in the key pad interface 195 is a “stop” button 187, whichstops the playback of the current media asset. The “skip back” button188 returns to the beginning of the current media asset, or if at thebeginning, returns to the beginning of the previous media asset. The“rewind” button 189 rewinds the current media asset; when the rewindbutton is released, the media manager application 120 begins playing thecurrent media asset. The “fast forward” button 191 advances forwardthrough the current media asset. When the “fast forward” button isreleased, the media manager application 120 begins playing the currentmedia asset. The “skip forward” button 192 begins playing the beginningof the next media asset in the list. The “back” or “previous screen”button 193 takes the user to the screen that was previously displayed.The “rewind” button 189 can also be used to delete characters that mayhave been input to the device when in text mode. Pressing the “fastforward” button 191 or leaning the joy stick 190 to the right can alsobe used to create a “space” when in text mode. The keypad interface 195can be used to control the viewing of audio, video, images,presentations, or other media assets on the media player terminal 100.

The above description with respect to particular layouts of the deviceand the location and presence of various buttons and control elements ismerely exemplary. It will be readily understood that a virtuallylimitless number of alternatives may be used while still remainingwithin the scope and spirit of the present invention. For example, theposition of display screen 102 and the key pad interface 195 may bewidely varied. The shape of display screen 102 may also be varied. Theshape of the buttons represented may also be varied. In addition to theabove, there could be other buttons or features which provide additionalcontrol functions. For example, media player 100 may include additionalswitches, keys, trackballs, touch pads, touch screens, and the like.

FIG. 2B is a representation of an alternate keypad interface 195 designfor media player 100 in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention. In this embodiment, the play/pause functionality stillresides with joy stick 190 at the center of key pad interface 195. Joystick 190 can be pressed as a button and used as a way to make menuselections, and also function as a play/pause key when used in thismanner. Leaning joy stick 190 to the right can provide a “fast forward”capability when manipulating media assets like audio or video files.Similarly, leaning joy stick 190 to the left can provide a “rewind”capability when manipulating audio or video assets. Other buttonsrepresented in FIG. 2B have similar functionality to buttons containedin FIG. 2A.

FIG. 2C is a front-side perspective view of a media player 100 with analpha-numeric telephone keypad 200 in accordance with one embodiment ofthe present invention. Media player 100 has an integrated key padinterface 195 as previously represented in FIG. 2B for controlling mediaassets while using the media manager application, and providing othersoftware navigation functionality. Key pad interface 195 represented inFIG. 2C could, in an alternate embodiment, be the key pad interface 195that is represented in FIG. 2A. Below key pad interface 195 in FIG. 2Cis an alpha-numeric telephone keypad 200 similar to ones found on mostcellular and fixed line telephones. Incorporating alpha-numeric key pad200 into another embodiment of the device would require the use of asmaller display screen 102 in order make media player 100 illustrated inFIG. 2C a pocket-size device. In another embodiment, alpha-numeric keypad 200 could be replaced with a QWERTY keyboard interface similar tothose found on Blackberry™ type devices made by Research In Motion(RIM). Regardless of whether media player 100 has a physicalalpha-numeric keypad or QWERTY keyboard, the device preferably includesa software-based QWERTY keyboard which is displayed in the graphicaluser interface and allows data input using joy stick 190 or thetouch-screen display 102.

FIG. 3A is a left-side perspective view of media player 100, inaccordance with another embodiment of the present invention. At the topis RFID activation button 211. Below it are two volume control buttons212 and 213. The button with the “plus sign” 212 is for increasing soundvolume, and the button with the “minus sign” 213 is for lowering thevolume of sound output.

FIG. 3B is a back-side perspective view of media player 100, inaccordance with another embodiment of the present invention. At the topof the back-side is an RFID “hot spot” 221. RFID “hot spot” 221 is amarked area representing the location of RFID Tag-Reader Module antenna114. RFID “hot spot” 221 is marked to allow a user to know which area ofthe media player 100 to position over an RFID “hot spot” on a targetdevice to which wireless connectivity is desired.

In one embodiment, RFID “hot spot” area 221 appears in a different colorthan the rest of the terminal casing, and is labeled with a symbol thatusers recognize as being the location of the RFID Tag-Reader Moduleantenna 114. Also situated on the back-side of media player 100 may becamera lens 223 and flash 225 for video capture and digital photography.Preferably, the camera lens and related apparatus in the media player100 is capable of supporting very high-resolution imaging.

FIG. 3C is a top-side perspective view of media player 100, inaccordance with another embodiment of the present invention. RFID “hotspot” 221 previously described could be positioned on any side and inany area of media player 100. FIG. 3C shows RFID “Hot Spot” 221 being onthe top-side of media player 100. Next to RFID “Hot Spot” 221 is a powerbutton 231 for switching the power to the media player 100 “on” or“off”.

FIG. 3D is a bottom-side perspective view of the media player 100, inaccordance with another embodiment of the present invention. Located onthe bottom of the device is a microphone 245 for audio input. Alsosituated on the bottom of the terminal is a data and power port 248. Thedata port may use any connector/port interface previously mentioned forinterfacing with other electronic devices. Also included is a power portthat receives a power plug or car charger plug for delivering power andcharging the media player's internal battery 103.

FIG. 4A is a functional diagram illustrating one embodiment of a RFIDTag-Reader Module 113 according to the invention. It is assumed that theRFID Tag-Reader Module 113 as embodied in FIG. 4A is attached to orembedded within media player 100.

RFID Tag-Reader Module 113 is capable of functioning as both an RFID tagand an RFID reader. In accordance with the invention, RFID Tag-ReaderModule 113 allows interoperability with RF 13.56 MHz readers and tagscompatible with existing international standards, including ISO 14443A/B, ISO 15693, FeliCa™, and NFC. Compatibility with these standardsgives media player 100 the ability to not only establish a wirelessconnection with other electronic devices using RFID for setup as earlierdescribed, but also allows media player 100 to function as an electronickey and wallet (for point-of-sale transactions). Alternative protocolsand frequencies may be used in connection with RFID Tag-Reader Module113 while still remaining within the scope and spirit of the presentinvention.

With reference to FIG. 4A, RFID Tag-Reader Module 113 includes anintegrated RFID Tag-Reader Controller 303 that manages all communicationbetween CPU 109 and the functional components of RFID Tag-Reader Module113. The hardware and software interface 302 between CPU 109 and RFIDTag-Reader Controller 303 allows an application operating on mediaplayer 100 to control functions of RFID Tag-Reader Module 113 and toexchange data with it. In addition to the appropriate hardwareinterface, an application program interface (API) layer supportscommunication between applications operating on media player 100 andRFID Tag-Reader Module 113. RFID Tag-Reader Controller 303 may alsoprovide notification to CPU 109 of unsuccessful read attempts by RFIDTag-Reader Module 113, successful read attempts, reader time-outs (asdiscussed below), and other possible results or actions associated withRFID Tag-Reader Module 113. These notifications are delivered to CPU 109via the hardware and software interface 302 in order to allow mediaplayer 100 to emit distinctive sounds/tones via its integrated speaker101 or display specific messages when these and other actions occur.

In one embodiment (FIG. 4A), RFID Tag-Reader Controller 303 interfaceswith RFID reader unit 304, a switch unit 305, and RFID tag unit 306.

The FIG. 4A version of RFID Tag-Reader Module 113 includes RFID readerunit 304 which represents the RFID tag reader functionality and RFID tagunit 306, which represents the RFID tag functionality. The embodimentillustrated in FIG. 4A includes a common RF interface 307 and a commonantenna 114 used by both RFID reader unit 304 and the RFID tag unit 306.It will be understood that radio frequency interface 307 as well as theantenna 114, which are presented in the present description, areadaptable to employ any suitable radio frequency used in the field ofRFID readers and tags while still remaining within the scope and spiritof the invention. RFID-Tag Reader Module 113 may be adapted, forexample, to allow communication in passive and active communicationmodes with reading/writing functionality in accordance with the nearfield communication standard (ECMA-340). Antenna 114 can be adapted tocommunicate with an RFID tag and with another RFID tag reader device.

RFID Tag-Reader Module 113 comprises a switch 305, which operates toswitch between RFID reader functionality and RFID tag functionality.Switch 305 receives a switching signal from RFID Tag-Reader Controller303 to which it connected via interface 311. RFID Tag-Reader Controller303 receives the switching signal from CPU 109 when an applicationoperating on media player 100 requires RFID Tag-Reader Module 113 toswitch functionality. The RFID Activation button 118 described above mayalso be used to switch RFID Tag-Reader Module 113 functionality.

Depending on the switching state or position of switch 305, either RFIDreader unit 304 is coupled to RF interface 307 or RFID tag unit 306 iscoupled to RF interface 307. In the former case, RFID readerfunctionality is available, whereas in the latter case RFID tagfunctionality is available. As the RFID reader functionality utilizesthe media player's 100 battery power in order to transmit interrogationsignals, switching the RFID reader functionality “on” only when desiredhas the benefit of conserving the media player's 100 battery. Incontrast, when the tag functionality is switched “on”, the media player100 does not consume battery power as it is waiting for an interrogationsignal from another device.

When RFID activation button 118 on the media player 100 is pressed, CPU109 sends a switching signal to RFID Tag-Reader Controller 303 to changethe position of switch 305. RFID Tag-Reader Controller 303, in turn,signals switch unit 305 to change positions via interface 311. WhileRFID activation button 118 is held pressed, the RFID readerfunctionality is switched on while the RFID tag functionality isdisabled. Holding RFID activation button 118 down provides the necessarypower for RFID reader unit 304 to transmit one or more interrogationsignals and to receive one or more response signals from an RFID tag(associated with an external electronic device) that is within range ofantenna 114.

When RFID activation button 118 is released, CPU 109 sends a switchingsignal to RFID Tag-Reader Controller 303 to change the position ofswitch 305 back to its original state. RFID Tag-Reader Controller 303,in turn, sends a message to switch unit 305 via interface 311 to changepositions. This time the RFID tag functionality is switched on while theRFID reader functionality is disabled. The use of RFID activation button118 in this manner serves to conserve power for media player 100, whilemaking RFID reader 304 functionality readily accessible.

According to another embodiment of the invention, RFID activation button118 can be pressed and immediately released in order to activate thereader functionality as previously described. In this case, the readermay continue sending interrogation signals via antenna 114 until aresponse is received (from a target device), or until such time as thereader functionality times-out (without having received a response). Inthis embodiment, RFID Tag-Reader Controller 303 tracks, via an internalclock, the time that has elapsed before a pre-set time-out limit isachieved. If an interrogation response is received within the time limitor if the reader times-out without receiving a response signal, RFIDTag-Reader Controller 303 will signal switch unit via interface 311 toswitch functionality. This results in RFID Tag-Reader Module 113reverting to its normal state whereby the RFID tag functionality isswitched on while the RFID reader functionality is disabled.

Analogously, RFID Tag-Reader Module 113 may be operable with RFID readerfunctionality when RFID activation button 118 is pressed (as describedabove), or media player 100 and/or one or more applications operatingthereon instruct RFID Tag-Reader Controller 303 to select/switch to RFIDreader functionality.

According to another embodiment of the invention, RFID activation button118 can be integrated into an electronic device that only includes anintegrated RFID tag (and no reader). Holding RFID activation button 118down in this case would have the effect of activating the RFID tag torespond to an interrogation signal received by its antenna from anotherelectronic device's RFID reader. The RFID tag would only respond to aninterrogation signal received by its antenna while RFID activationbutton 118 is held pressed. In another embodiment, pressing andimmediately releasing the RFID activation button 118 may activate theRFID tag and allow it to respond to interrogation signals received byits antenna 114 within a set time limit after which time the tag returnsto its normal state where it is inoperable and unable to respond tointerrogation signals.

In the case of RFID reader 304 functionality, the antenna 114 is adaptedto transmit one or more interrogation signals and to receive one or moreresponse signals for retrieving information from an RFID tag in anexternal electronic device. In case of RFID tag functionality, antenna114 is adequate to receive one or more interrogation signals and totransmit one or more response signals carrying information retrievedfrom RFID tag unit 304. Antenna 114 is connected to RF interface 307 viaone or more signal connections which supplies RF/HF signals generated byRF interface 307 to antenna 114 and which accepts RF/HF signals receivedby antenna 114.

RF interface 307 is responsible for both modulating and demodulating thesignals to be transmitted and received by antenna 114, respectively.Therefore, RF interface 307 couples to RFID reader unit 304 and RFID tagunit 306, respectively. In particular, RF interface 307 receives fromRFID reader unit 304 signals to be modulated and transmitted andtransmits demodulated signals to RFID reader unit 304. RF interface 307also transmits demodulated signals to RFID tag unit 306 and receivessignals from RFID tag unit 306 to be modulated and transmitted. Moreparticularly, RF interface provides further signals necessary for theoperation of RFID tag unit 306 which are comprised of a power supplysignal (voltage signal) and a clock signal. The power supply signal isgained from the coupling of the interrogating electromagnetic fieldwhereas the clock signal is obtained from the demodulator included inthe RF interface. The power supply signal and the clock signal arenecessary for operating RFID tag unit 306 as a passive RFID tagenergized by interrogating signal of a RFID reader device.

Signal 313 is generated by RFID reader unit 304 to be modulated by RFinterface 307 and to be transmitted by antenna 114. Signal 313 is alsoreceived by antenna 114 and demodulated by RF interface 307 to besupplied to RFID reader unit 304. Signal 313 is provided to switch unit305 which interfaces with RF interface 307 via signal 315.

Signals received by antenna 114 and supplied to RFID reader unit 304,are passed to RFID Tag-Reader Controller 303 via interface 310. RFIDTag-Reader Controller 303 in turn, passes the received data to CPU 109via interface 302 for use by applications operating on media player 100.Applications operating on media player 100 can also customizeinterrogation signals by sending a message to RFID reader unit 304 viaRFID Tag-Reader Controller 303.

Analogously, connection 314 carries signals received by the antenna 114and demodulated by RF interface 307 to be supplied to RFID tag unit 306.Connection 314 also carries signals generated by RFID tag unit 306 to bemodulated by RF interface 307 and to be transmitted by antenna 114.Connection 314 is switched by switch unit 305 to RF interface 307connected to switch 305 via connection 315. The aforementioned powersupply signal and clock signal are supplied from RF interface 307 toRFID tag unit 306 via switch 305 and may be part of the signalstransmitted via connection 316 and connection 314.

The information stored in RFID tag unit 306 that can be retrieved by anRFID reader device is stored in memory. The memory may be a read-onlystorage component or a configurable storage component. In case of aconfigurable storage component, a number of storage technologiesincluding, non-volatile configurable memory can be used. Applicationsoperating on media player 100 can update information stored in RFID tagunit 306 by sending the data to RFID Tag-Reader Controller via interface302. RFID Tag-Reader Controller 303 in turn sends the new data to RFIDtag unit 306 via interface 312. Access to the configurable tag memorymay be limited to one or more specific applications executed on mediaplayer 100 to ensure data integrity, which may be required and necessarydepending on the kind of information stored.

FIG. 4B is a block diagram illustrating an alternative embodiment of anRFID Tag-Reader Module 113 according to still another embodiment of theinvention. The RFID Tag-Reader Module embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4Bis comparable to the RFID Tag-Reader Module illustrated in FIG. 4A inseveral ways. RFID Tag-Reader Module 113 according to the embodiment inFIG. 4B, includes an integrated RFID Tag-Reader Controller 303 thatmanages all communication between CPU 109 and the functional componentsof RFID Tag-Reader Module 113. The hardware and software interface 302between CPU and RFID Tag-Reader Controller 303 allows an applicationoperating on media player 100 to control functions of RFID Tag-ReaderModule 113 and to exchange data with it. A common RF interface 307 and acommon antenna 114 are used by the RFID reader functionality and RFIDtag functionality. The reader logic 320 is preferably implemented as amicrocontroller (μC) and a microprocessor (μP), respectively, whichprovide for data communication interface to media player 100 and theapplication executed thereon, respectively. The reader logic operatesthe interface and protocol framework for communicating with RFID tags(passive communication mode) and in particular, when supporting activecommunication mode, for communicating with RFID tag reader devices.

An optional reader memory 323 is associated with the microcontroller(μC) and a microprocessor (μP), respectively. Conventionally, a distinctreader memory 323 is not necessary for RFID reader functionality, butreader memory 323 may be used as a buffer storage for communication withmedia player 100 as well as with an RFID tag or another RFID tag readerdevice.

A switch/logic component 321 is interposed between RF interface 307 andreader logic 320 to switch between RFID reader functionality and RFIDtag functionality as described in detail above. The switch/logiccomponent implement tag logic necessary for providing RFID tagfunctionality. Correspondingly, the tag memory 322 is connected to theswitch/logic component 321. The tag memory 322 is also connected to theRFID Tag-Reader Controller 303 in order to receive configuration datafrom applications operating on media player 100.

According to the invention, memory components in RFID Tag-Reader Module113 may be tamper resistant as to prevent hackers from retrievingconfidential information and encryption keys

Common RF interface 307 provides signals to the switch/logic component321, which are required for operation of RFID reader functionality andRFID tag functionality. The switch/logic component 321 passes throughsignals to the microprocessor (μP) 320, which are required by themicroprocessor (μP) 320. Signal control is accomplished via switch/logiccomponent 321.

As described above, the switching state of switch/logic component 321and the switch defines the functionality of RFID Tag-Reader Module 113,respectively. The switching state and therefore the switching operationis important to ensure proper operation of RFID Tag-Reader Module 113.The switching state of switch/logic component 321 and the switch iscontrolled by a switching signal supplied via the interface 311 to RFIDTag-Reader Controller 303.

RFID Tag-Reader Module 113 may be operable with RFID readerfunctionality when the RFID activation button 118 is pressed on mediaplayer 100 as described earlier, or if one or more applicationsoperating thereon signal RFID Tag-Reader Controller 303 to switch toRFID reader functionality. If no explicit indication to select RFIDreader functionality is present, RFID Tag-Reader Module 113 is operatedin RFID tag functionality by default to conserve power.

Alternatively, switch/logic component 321 and the microprocessor (μP)320 may be implemented in a common logic component (not shown), which isadapted to operate functions of switch/logic component 321 as well asfunctions of microprocessor (μP) 320. Other functional components mayalso be combined, while remaining within the spirit and scope of theinvention.

Further details concerning an RFID Tag-Reader Module with transponderfunctionality which may be used in connection with the teachings of thepresent invention are described in U.S. Patent Application PublicationUS 2004/0176032A1, filed Mar. 19, 2004, which is assigned to NokiaCorporation and which is fully incorporated herein by reference. RFIDTag-Reader Controller 303 and RFID activation button 118 as describedherein may be used with other RFID Tag-Reader Module designs whileremaining within the scope and spirit of the invention.

FIG. 5 is a functional diagram of a media player 100 interfacing withwireless headphone unit 152, in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent invention. Media player 100 can securely establish wirelessconnectivity with headphone unit 152 by first initiating an RFID dataexchange between the RFID components integrated in both devices. Theexchange of communication settings, device information, mediacapabilities, and other parameters via RFID is accomplished by bringingthe RFID antenna of both devices in proximity to one another. The RFexchange of communication and other settings facilitates the automaticsetup and establishment of a secure wireless connection between thedevices in order to allow audio signals to be transmitted over-the-airfrom media player 100 to headphone unit 152. The subsequent creation ofa “device profile” containing the captured communication settings andother parameters associated with wireless headphone unit 152, allowsmedia player 100 to establish connectivity with headphone unit 152 infuture communication sessions.

Wireless headphone 152 in this embodiment may be a Bluetooth-enableddevice with an integrated RFID tag module 369. RFID tag module 369 is acomponent of the System-on-Chip 361 assembly integrated in wirelessheadphone unit 152. System-on-Chip assembly 361 is designed for ultralow power consumption. Wireless headphone unit 152 has a rechargeablebattery that can be charged using a car charger or charger unit thatplugs in to a power outlet.

System-on-Chip 361 assembly includes a Bluetooth sequencer 364, a lowpower 2.4 GHz Bluetooth radio 363, Bluetooth antenna 363, CPU 373, DSPand CODEC unit 374, high-speed UART/GPIO 376, RC oscillator 377, powermanagement unit 378, EEPROM/Serial Flash Memory 379, and an RFID TagModule 369. The RFID Tag Module 369 in one embodiment includes an RFIDtag 371, an RFID antenna 372, and an optional RFID tag memory component370. The embedded Bluetooth sequencer 364 executes the lower layers ofthe Bluetooth stack, while the host processor 373 runs the applicationand the higher levels of the Bluetooth protocol stack software. Thisarchitecture guarantees that the real-time operations of the lowerlevels can't be influenced by the application. The Host ControllerInterface (HCI) has been specified into the Bluetooth protocol as astandardized interface between the lower and upper layers. The upperlayers are components of software implemented on the host processor 373and communicating with the Bluetooth sequencer 364 through the HCI. TheHCI commands are carried by an internal UART link between the hostprocessor (CPU) 373 and the Bluetooth sequencer 364.

The on-chip DSP (Digital Signal Processing) and CODEC unit 374 isconnected with the headphone speakers to facilitate high quality audiooutput. A Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) directly interfaces to theserial EEPROM or Flash Memory 379. This memory stores the applicationand the upper layers of the Bluetooth protocol stack are loaded atboot-up, and executed by the on-chip application processor. TheBluetooth sequencer 364 is ROM-based. The General Purpose Input/Outputports (GPIO) 376 interface to push buttons, LEDs, and other peripheralspart of the headphone. The high speed UART supports hardware flowcontrol and data rates up to 460 kbit/s.

The embedded Bluetooth sequencer 364 executes the lower layers of theBluetooth stack, while the host processor (CPU) 373 runs the applicationand the higher levels of the Bluetooth protocol stack software.

In one embodiment, RFID tag 371 may be a passive tag, which operateswithout the internal battery source of the headphone 152, deriving thepower to operate from the radio field 351 generated by RFID tag-readermodule 113 in media player 100 when in very close proximity (10-20centimeters). In this case, the Bluetooth device serial number istransmitted by RFID tag 371 to RFID tag-reader module 113 in mediaplayer 100. If System-On-Chip 361 only has a passive tag there is nooption to update the tag information, so the information may includeonly the Bluetooth serial number of the headphone unit 152, which may behard-coded within RFID tag 371 during the manufacturing process.

In another embodiment, RFID tag module 369 can be a semi-passive oractive tag powered by an internal battery allowing a greater RFcommunication range and higher data transmission rates. A semi-passiveor active tag module 369 may include a read/write storage device 370. Inthe case of a semi-passive tag it is possible to process informationbefore message transmission. This enables the transmission of additionalinformation such as the Bluetooth Clock Offset, Bluetooth device serialnumber, and other parameters that would allow media player 100 tocapture the media capability of the headphone 152 and facilitate thecreation of a device profile on media player 100. Bluetoothcommunication settings, device information, and other data can beupdated in the tag memory 370 by the application processor 373. Theapplication processor 373 receives the Bluetooth communication settingsfrom the Bluetooth sequencer 364.

In one embodiment, RFID activation button 118 on media player 100 may bepressed in order to activate the RFID reader functionality in RFIDtag-reader module 113. Activation of the RFID reader functionalityresults in the RFID antenna 114 transmitting interrogation signals. Whenthe headphone's RFID tag antenna 372 enters the radio field 351generated by the media player's RFID antenna 114 and receivesinterrogation signals, the headphone's RFID tag transmits 352 theBluetooth serial number and other parameters to the media player's RFIDtag-reader module 113.

After the media player's RFID tag-reader module 113 receives theBluetooth serial number and other parameters, the data is transferred toCPU 109. Media player 100 instantly sends a Bluetooth paging messageusing the received information via its short range transceiver 108. Inresponse to the page, the headphone 152 performs a connection setup withmedia player 100 using normal Bluetooth session set-up procedure. Uponcompletion, media player 100 can stream all audio output via wirelesssignal 353 to the headphone unit 152.

The RFID discovery/paging process shortens the session setup time ascompared to normal Bluetooth terminal discovery process for establishinga session. The RFID discovery methodology and system described hereincan also be used in communication between two or more media playerdevices 100, if the devices are respectively equipped with RFID tags andRFID readers.

Along those lines, FIG. 6 is a functional diagram of two media players100A & 100B wirelessly communicating with one another and theirrespective headphones 152A & 152B, in accordance with one embodiment ofthe present invention.

In one embodiment, the first media player 100A is playing digital musicstored in storage unit 112 using the media manager application 120 onmedia player 100A. The digital music is being transmitted wirelessly toa headphone unit 152A to which connectivity was established using theRFID discovery/paging process previously described. The user of mediaplayer 100A who is listening to the audio output via his wirelessheadset 152A decides to allow his friend to listen to the same music heis currently listening to. His friend also possesses a media player 100Band a wireless headphone 152B that have already established wirelessconnectivity via Bluetooth.

In accordance with the invention, RFID activation button 118 on thefirst media player 100A is pressed in order to activate the RFID readerfunctionality in RFID tag-reader module 113. Activation of the RFIDreader functionality results in the RFID antenna 114 transmittinginterrogation signals. At this time, the target media player's RFIDtag-reader module 113 is in its normal state with tag functionallyoperable, and reader functionality disabled. When the target mediaplayer's 100B RFID tag antenna 114 enters the radio field 410 generatedby the media player's 100A RFID antenna 114 and receives interrogationsignals, the target media player's 100B RFID tag transmits the Bluetoothserial number, Bluetooth Clock Offset, media capabilities, and otherparameters to the media player's 100A RFID tag-reader module 113.

After the media player's 100A RFID tag-reader module 113 receives thecommunication settings, media processing capabilities, and otherparameters, the data is transferred to CPU 109. Media player 100Ainstantly sends a Bluetooth paging message using the receivedinformation via its short range transceiver 108. In response to thepage, the target media player 100B performs a connection setup with themedia player 100A using normal Bluetooth session set-up procedure. Uponcompletion, media player 100A automatically transmits the music contentthat is playing at the time the connection is established. The mediacontent is transmitted via wireless signal 412 to the target mediaplayer 100B. Audio content that is transmitted from media player 100A tothe target media player 100B, can be listened to on the headphone unit152B which is wirelessly connected to media player 100B via wirelesssignal 414.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, electronic deviceswith integrated RFID tags or tag-reader modules that use the RFIDdiscovery process for automatically establishing a wireless connectionwill be capable of transmitting more than just communication settingsvia RFID. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, asample RFID transmission 450 between two electronic devices may include,for example, the message components 451 outlined in FIG. 7. Alsorepresented in the table is example content 452 for the differentmessage components 451. The example content 452 listed in FIG. 7 is notmeant to be exhaustive; examples are shown for exemplary purposes tohelp explain the invention.

The following is a discussion of the message components 451 contained inthe RFID transmission data 450. The first message component is “devicetype” 453 which describes the unit's primary function (e.g., MP3 player,cellular phone, stereo, etc.). The “device type” 453 may be coded by themanufacturer, and typically corresponds to the same label used to marketthe device. In one embodiment, device manufacturers use standardizedcodes to represent the “device type” parameter in the RFID transmissiondata 450.

The second message component is “device manufacturer” 454 (e.g., XYZElectronics). The name of the “device manufacturer” 454 could berepresented in the user interface of another connecting device, as a wayto provide validation that it is wirelessly connecting to the correctdevice. If the user saves the profile for the connecting device, thename of the “device manufacturer” can be helpful in differentiatingbetween similar types of devices within a profile list.

The next message component is “device model” 455 (e.g., WaveRadioTH-190). The “device model” is the manufacturer's model number/code. Insome cases, the “device model” may correspond to a model name thatappears directly on the device. The “device model” 455 also helps inidentifying a specific device.

The next message component, “device or user identifier” 456 may havebeen programmed in the device by the user to denote its location (e.g.,“kitchen”), owner (e.g., “Anthony”), or other attributes (e.g., acomplete calling card containing the contact information for the deviceowner such as f all name, title, company, mailing address, E.164 number,e-mail address, etc.). Unlike other message components that areestablished by the manufacturer or generated by the device itself, the“device/user identifier” 456 is input into the device by the operator.The “device/user identifier” 456 is also helpful in identifying specificdevices from a list of device profiles. To properly represent itsapplication, assume that a user has three stereos in his house that arewireless enabled, capable of processing digital music, and have RFID“hot spots” integrated. Further assume that all the stereos aremanufactured by the same company, and are the same model.

In such instances, a differentiating piece of information like locationor owner name could help identify the right device from a list of deviceprofiles. Assuming that the stereos allow a user to input a device/useridentifier, the user could in this example, input room locations as theidentifier (e.g., kitchen, family room, basement). Alternatively, theuser could use family member names if each stereo is in a differentperson's room (e.g., Anthony, Robert, John). Whatever information isinput into each stereo as a “device/user identifier” 456, is what isused in its respective RFID transmission data 450. This information mayalso be particularly useful in a business setting wherein a number ofusers access various shared devices through user provided media players.

Separately, certain devices such as the wireless media player 100, mayallow a user to specify an electronic calling card for the “device/useridentifier” 456. As such, the user's calling card may be included in theRFID transmission data 450 and provided to the connecting device. This“calling card” may provide specific information about a user such as isincluded in a “vcard” as is known in the art. In the event that aparticular device does not allow data input by the user, themanufacturer may provide a default setting for the “device/useridentifier” 456.

The next message component is “profile settings” 457 and specifies, forexample, whether to allow a profile for the device to be created on aconnecting device. If profiles are allowed, the “profile settings” 457further specify whether to allow the connecting device to be able toauto-detect and connect via wireless when in proximity. The profilesettings 457 may be pre-set by the manufacturer, or may be adjustedaccording to user-driven preferences on the device.

The next message component is “RF capability” 458. This parameterspecifies the supported wireless communications protocols (e.g.,802.11a/b/g/n, UWB, 802.15.4/ZigBee, Wireless USB, 802.15.3/WiMedia,Wireless 1394, Wireless FireWire, Bluetooth) and RF frequency bands forbroadcast transmission/reception (e.g., UHF/VHF, AM/FM) availablethrough the device. In the event that the device supports multiplecommunications protocols and frequency bands, they can be listed in theRFID transmission data 450 in order of preference. This information alsoenables connecting devices to try an alternate communications protocol,in the event that connectivity cannot be first established with apreferred one.

The next message component is “communication settings” 459. Thisincludes the necessary parameters for configuring the supported wirelesscommunications protocols. For example, if the Bluetooth protocol issupported, a Bluetooth terminal serial number and the Bluetooth ClockOffset of the device would be included. In the case of Bluetooth,“communication settings” 459 may further include details on supportedBluetooth profiles (e.g., handsfree, handset). The configurationsettings overall will vary for each of the different communicationsprotocols that are supported by the device. Additional “communicationsettings” 459 could be included for enabling security.

Security settings such as encryption keys may be included as part of thecommunication parameters 459. Various types of encryption keys can bepopulated by the media player 100 and other devices in their respectiveRFID transmission messages 450. For example, encryption data for threelayers of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model can be populatedin the RFID transmission data 450: the application, the data link, orthe network layers. Data encryption in these layers provides for securecommunication over IP networks. Encryption keys for use in descramblingsecure video and audio signals over broadcast frequencies like the onesmentioned can also be populated in the RFID transmission data 450 asdiscussed later.

Also included as part of the communication parameters 459 is a list ofsupported protocols and parameters for communication via the Internet(IP, SIP, etc.). A complete catalogue of protocols and parameters foroperation of the Internet and its future development can be found on theInternet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) web site; any possiblecombination of protocols and parameters from the IANA site can beincorporated in the RFID transmission message 450 if supported by thedevice.

The next message component is hardware/software parameters 460. Hardwarecapabilities related to the device's display, audio equipment, datainput hardware, and other components can be populated. Further, thedevice's operating system (OS) and other software capabilities can beprovided in this category. Information such as OS version, list ofsupported software, and other software parameters may be included as away to ensure compatibility and interoperability between devices.Certain connecting devices may use this information to only facilitateconnections with devices that have identical hardware and software.

Finally, the device's media processing capabilities 461 are listed inthe RFID transmission data 450. This information indicates the device'sability to process media assets that are in specific formats. Forexample, the media player 100 may support the following audio formatswhich would be listed in its RFID transmission data: MP3, WMA, WAV, AAC,HE-AAC, FLAC, Ogg Vorbis. Others are also possible. Video formatssupported by the media player 100 might include, for example: MPEG 1,MPEG 2, MPEG 4, MPEG 7, AVI, and XviD. Image formats supported by themedia player 100 might include, for example: JPEG, JPEG2000, TIFF, GIF,BMP, and PNG. Presentation formats supported by the media player 100 mayinclude: PPS, and PPT. Internet content supported by the media player100 might include: HTML, XHTML, DHTML, and JavaScript.

This type of information allows media player 100 to only transmit mediaassets which are supported by the target device(s). This informationalso allows either or both of the target device and media player 100 toconvert media assets into supported formats before transmission to theother when required. The supported media formats for media player 100listed above are not meant to comprise a complete and exhaustive list.It should also be noted that devices such as media player 100 mayperiodically update their media processing capabilities to be able tohandle additional formats.

A standard message structure containing the RFID transmissioninformation 450 in FIG. 7 allows a multitude of electronic devices to beable to quickly setup and establish wireless connectivity with eachother using the RFID connector system previously discussed. Inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a standardmessage structure for RFID transmission information 450 outlined in FIG.7 allows different devices to rapidly discover each other'scommunication and media capabilities and other parameters. According tothe invention, transmitting the media player's 100 RFID transmissioninformation 450 and processing a target device's RFID transmissioninformation 450 could facilitate the automatic activation of a radiotransceiver with an appropriate communications protocol, allowing themedia player 100 and target device to conserve power by not alwayshaving their wireless interface turned on.

The RFID transmission information 450 could also facilitate theautomatic launching of specific software applications operating oneither device. The RFID transmission information 450 could alsofacilitate the automatic customization of software properties on bothdevices (e.g., GUI menu options, layout, graphics, messages, etc.); forexample, when selecting media assets to transmit to a target device, themedia player 100 may only show files that the target device is capableof processing. The RFID transmission information 450 could alsofacilitate the automatic transmission of certain media assets uponconnection (as discussed below). Receiving and processing anotherdevice's RFID transmission information 450 on the media player 100 couldalso facilitate the automatic presentation of media received from thatdevice, without any user action being required on the media player 100.For example, if another device that has exchanged RFID transmissioninformation 450 with the media player 100 wirelessly transmits a videoto the media player 100, the media player can automatically launch themedia manager application 120 and begin displaying the incoming video.Other automated operations by the media player 100 in response toreceiving and processing a target device's RFID transmission information450 are possible and within the scope and spirit of the invention.

A standard message structure could use special codes to representmessage components 451 and content 452, that applications operating onvarious electronic devices, such as the media player 100, coulduniversally interpret and process. The message components 451 listed inFIG. 7 are only general categories of the types of information thatcould be encoded in an RFID transmission message 450. Sub-categories andadditional categories of information are possible while remaining withinthe scope and spirit of the invention.

RFID transmission information 450 received from other electronic devicescan be used to establish and store device profiles on the media player100. These device profiles can later be used by the media player 100 toautomatically connect to these devices when in the vicinity, or tomanually connect to them based on the user selecting a profile andinitiating the connection. Data encoded in the RFID transmission 450allows the media player 100 to appropriately organize the deviceprofiles based on device type 453, making them easier to find.

According to the invention, the RFID transmission information 450 couldbe encoded by the media player 100 and other electronic devices usingSOAP/XML. XML is the acronym for eXtensible Markup Language, theuniversal format for structured documents and data on the Web. XML is anindustry-standard protocol administered by the World Wide Web Consortium(W3C). The use of standard XML tags amongst electronics manufacturers torepresent data in the RFID transmission information 450 allows forgreater interoperability between devices using the methods describedherein. According to the invention, the XML-encoded device informationfor the media player 100 may be generated by an application operating onthe media player and sent to the RFID Tag-Reader Module 113 where it isstored for later transmission.

According to the invention, an XML message parser may operate on themedia player 100 to interpret received RFID transmission information 450encoded using the XML schema. The XML parser may in turn make theprocessed data available to other applications operating on the mediaplayer 100. The use of other encoding schemes, other than XML, could beapplied to standardizing the RFID transmission information 450, andwould not be outside the scope or spirit of the invention.

In one embodiment, the RFID transmission information 450 format complieswith the Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) specification as promulgated bythe Universal Plug and Play Forum. The UPnP Device Architecture documentdetails the protocols and conventions required of UPnP devices, andexplains the basic patterns all UPnP devices follow in their operation.The UPnP specification includes similar information related toaddressing, description, discovery, control, eventing, and presentation.UPnP is the foundation of other home networking standards such as theDigital Living Network Alliance and Intel's Networked Media ProductsRequirements (NMPR) specifications; the RFID transmission information450 could also be formatted according to these other specifications. Inyet another embodiment, the RFID transmission information 450 could beformatted according to Apple's Rendezvous specification. Rendezvous, isan open source protocol that enables the automatic discovery ofcomputers, devices, and services on IP networks.

In one embodiment of the invention, the RFID transmission information450 for the media player 100 is stored in the RFID tag memory unit 322of the RFID Tag-Reader Module 113. Software and other changes which maybe executed on the media player 100 may cause the RFID transmissioninformation 450 to be dynamically updated in the RFID Tag-Reader Module113. For example, if software operating on the media player 100 isupdated to handle new audio and video formats, the software canautomatically update the RFID transmission information 450 stored in theRFID tag memory unit 322 with the latest information on the device'smedia capabilities. This in turn allows a communicating device toascertain the media player's most current

As mentioned earlier, in one embodiment of the invention, the RFIDtransmission information 450 is transmitted from the target device whichhas an operable RFID tag to a master device which has enabled its RFIDreader functionality. In accordance with the invention, it should benoted that RFID transmission information 450 as embodied in FIG. 7 canalso be transmitted from a device which has an operable RFID reader to adevice with an operable RFID tag. An RFID tag that can be written withdata by the master RFID reader device can be realized with varyingmemory capacities. In this embodiment, both electronic devices transmiteach other's device information, communication settings, and other datato facilitate cross-discovery and customization of software propertiesas described herein. Where there are two devices that will be sharingsensitive media between each other and enhanced security is desired,this embodiment is preferred as both devices can discover each other'scapabilities rapidly upon exchanging RFID transmission information 450.In this embodiment, enhanced security is provided as both devices canshare each other's encryption keys via the RFID exchange methodsdescribed.

There are instances where media only flows in one direction, as is thecase with the media player 100 transmitting audio signals to a wirelessheadphone 152. In such an instance, the media player 100 only needs todiscover the capabilities of the headphone 152, and not vice versa. Assuch, devices like the headphone unit 152 which may only receive data,only require a passive or active RFID tag.

In accordance with the invention, data stored in a device profile canperiodically be updated over-the-air when the media player 100establishes a communication session with the target device. According tothe invention, the media player 100 may periodically poll the targetdevice for new profile information. A new profile is sent over-the-airto the media player 100, and the old device profile record is updated.This is an especially important feature for devices that may becontinually updating their media processing capabilities. Device profileinformation stored on the player 100 could be encoded using an XMLschema. As such, over-the-air updates of device profiles could beencoded the same way. As previously mentioned, other encoding schemesare also possible

FIG. 8A is a flow diagram of a wireless transmission method using RFIDsetup, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Theflow diagram is outlined from the perspective of a media player 100establishing connectivity with a target electronic device. The methodgenerally begins at decision point 501, where it is determined if mediais being received from an external source and viewed on the player 100,whether media stored on the device is being played/viewed at thatinstance, or whether a resident game is operating on the player 100.

In the first case mentioned, the user of media player 100 may decidethat he wants to wirelessly transmit the incoming media to anotherelectronic device to facilitate enhanced viewing, for example, on alarge television with surround sound. Alternatively, he may decide toshare the incoming media with a friend in the vicinity that also has awireless media player device. Similarly, in the second case, the ownerof the media player 100 may be listening to digital music stored on thedevice and may decide to wirelessly transmit the media to a stereosystem that provides for enhanced listening with its powerful speakersand sound output capability. Finally, in the last case, the owner of themedia player 100 may be in the midst of playing a game operating on thedevice and may wish to allow one or more of his friends with a similardevice to wirelessly connect to his media player 100 and compete inmulti-player mode.

All of these examples assume that the target devices are wirelessenabled, have compatible media processing capabilities, and haveintegrated RFID modules.

A user that is engaged in viewing incoming media or listening to musicstored locally on the media player 100 should be able to automaticallyestablish a wireless connection with a target device and transmit thesame media for listening/viewing pleasure on the target device withminimal effort. Similarly, a user should also be able to establishwireless connectivity with minimal effort with other devices in order toplay multi-player games. The RFID discovery method previously describedallows two electronic devices that have integrated RFID components and acommon wireless interface to do just that.

For the purpose of reviewing the method outlined in FIG. 8A, assume thatthe media player 100 is playing digital music stored on the device. Theoperator of the media player 100 wants to transmit the media contentthat is playing on the device to a stereo that has an RFID “hot spot”and an integrated RFID tag-reader module 113 for wireless setup. Thestereo is Bluetooth-enabled and allows connectivity to compatibleBluetooth devices such as the media player 100 for exchanging mediacontent. For illustrative purposes, both the media player 100 and stereoare Bluetooth-enabled. For purposes of this invention, the devices couldcommunicate via any other known wireless protocol.

Following block 502 in FIG. 8A, the operator of media player 100 pressesthe RFID activation button 118 on the media player 100. As previouslyoutlined, this activates the RFID reader functionality and makes theRFID tag functionality inoperable in the RFID Tag-Reader Module 113(block 503). The media player's RFID antenna 114 begins transmittinginterrogation signals. Per block 504, the operator brings the mediaplayer's “hot spot” 221 in range of the stereo's RFID “hot spot”. Inblock 505, the stereo's RFID tag transmits its RFID transmissioninformation 450 to the media player's RFID antenna 114 in response to areceived interrogation signal. In an alternate embodiment, the mediaplayer 100 first transmits its RFID transmission information 450 to thestereo's RFID tag as part of the interrogation signal, and receives backthe stereo's RFID transmission information 450. In both embodiments, thereceiving device uses the received RFID transmission information 450 toprocess the opposite device's communication, media processing, and othercapabilities.

In block 506, RFID Tag-Reader Module 113 in the media player 100 returnsto its normal state, with the tag functionality switched and the readerfunctionality inoperable. In block 507, wireless connectivity betweenmedia player 100 and the stereo is established. At block 510, mediaplayer 100 begins wirelessly transmitting the media that is currentlyplaying on media player 100, from its current position, to the stereoalong with information about the media (e.g. song name, artist, album,etc). The stereo can display the received media information on its LCDif one is available. Media player 100 transmits the media to the stereoin a supported format as ascertained during step 505. In accordance withthe invention, if the format of the media that was playing on mediaplayer 100 is not supported by the stereo, as ascertained in step 505,the media player 100 can automatically convert the media into a formatthat is supported by the stereo. The conversion process of media fromone format to another, and the transmission of the converted media canoccur dynamically as the media continues to play on media player 100.

While connected, media player 100 can transmit the user's playlists orsong selections exactly as they play on the media player 100 to thestereo. This allows the user to listen to them via the stereo just as hewould have directly from the media player 100. In accordance with theinvention, while connected—the user can use the controls of the mediaplayer 100 to control the media playing experience on the target device.For example, the “stop”, “pause”, “play”, “rewind”, “fast forward”, andother buttons on the media player 100 can be used to control the audioattributes on the stereo in the current example. For other targetdevices, various other controls may be operated via media player 100.

Per block 512, the user may terminate the wireless session between thestereo and the media player 100 by using the software/hardware controlsavailable on either device to perform the operation. Upon termination ofthe wireless session, per block 513, the user will be prompted on themedia player 100 to state whether he wants to save the device profilefor the stereo. The user would only see this prompt if the stereospecified a permission in its profile settings 457 allowing the user tocreate a profile for the device. Per block 514, the user can decideaffirmatively to save the profile of the stereo to which he waspreviously connected. If the user doesn't want to save the deviceprofile, it is discarded as shown in block 515 per the user's action.Device profiles allow users to connect to the same device in the futureeither automatically (when in range of the device's RF signal), ormanually by selecting the profile from a list (and when within range ofthe device's RF signal).

FIG. 8B is a flow diagram of a wireless transmission method using RFIDsetup, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.Like FIG. 8A, the method outlined in FIG. 8B also begins at decisionpoint 501, where it is determined if media is being received from anexternal source (target device), whether media stored on the device isbeing played/viewed, or whether a resident game or other application isoperating on the device therein. In contrast to FIG. 8A, this exampleassumes there is no incoming media, no locally stored media beingplayed/viewed, and no game or other application operating therein.

In the method outlined in FIG. 8B, the user desires the ability towirelessly connect the media player 100 with a target device in itsvicinity, in order to transmit certain media assets to the targetdevice. The process of connecting the media player 100 to the targetdevice in steps 502-507 were discussed earlier, and are the same in thisexample. Upon establishing wireless connectivity with the target device,the media player 100 prompts the user to select the content source fromwhich he wants to select a media asset to transmit to the target device.For example, the user may be presented with three options from which toselect from in step 540. The first option is “live content” (real-timecapture) 541. The options within the “live content” option 541 aredependent on the capabilities of the respective media player 100. Forexample, some media players 100 may come equipped with a built-in camerafor capturing digital pictures. Other media players 100 may havefunctionality to capture video and audio.

As such, selecting the “live content” 541 option will further prompt theuser to select the specific type of “live content” he wants to captureand transmit to a target device. Selecting “images”, for example, wouldallow the user to take pictures and have them instantaneously storedlocally while also being transmitted to a target device in its vicinityfor viewing. Similarly, selecting “video” would activate the videocamera functionality in the media player 100 and allow the user tocapture a live video feed that is stored locally and transmitted to thetarget device. Similarly, selecting “audio” would activate the audiocapture functionality in the media player 100 allowing the user torecord and transmit audio to a target device.

Another content source is “stored content” 542. This content sourceencompasses all media resident in the media player's storage unit 112.“Stored content” 542 may include video, music/audio, pictures,presentations, animation, Internet-content, and other media types. Asabove, these media files may be transmitted to one or more targetdevices as discussed herein.

The next content source is “Internet content” 543. This content sourceencompasses a number of Internet media sources for movies, music, radio,news and other content. Selecting any one of these Internetcategories/channels may provide additional sub-categories which helpusers find the genre or type of content that they may be searching for.A media guide may be available to help users find the content they arelooking for on the Internet. The “Internet content” option could, forexample, allow a user to browse movie trailers on his wireless mediaplayer 100, select a movie for download, pay for the movie, and use themedia player 100 to re-transmit the selected movie to a television inthe vicinity using the methods described herein. The user can in turnuse the media player's controls to adjust the viewing experience on thetelevision. For example, while watching the movie on his television, theuser can pause, rewind, or fast-forward the movie using controls in themedia player 100.

The next content source is “broadcast TV” 544. This content sourceencompasses content received via broadcast frequency bands such as UHFand VHF and other over-the-air sources. A transceiver and tuner in themedia player 100 allows the unit to receive local television channelsand other content from local devices in the vicinity via these frequencybands. Content from these sources can be further transmitted by themedia player 100 to other devices in accordance with the invention. Onepossible example includes receipt by media player 100 of a satellitebased content stream such as “XM” or “Sirius” satellite radio or otherproviders. The media manager application operating on media player 100allows the user to browse different channels.

The next content source is “broadcast radio” 545. This content sourceencompasses content received via broadcast frequency bands such as AMand FM. A transceiver and tuner in the media player 100 allows the unitto receive radio channels and content from local devices in the vicinityvia these frequency bands. Content from these sources can be furthertransmitted by the media player 100 to other devices in accordance withthe invention. The media manager application operating on media player100 allows the user to scan and seek different radio channels.

In one embodiment of the invention, only content sources capable ofbeing processed by a selected target device are displayed to the user bythe media player 100 in the graphical user interface. Thus, when theuser selects the desired target device, media player 100 can use theprofile associated with that target device to determine allowable mediatypes. Further, within a particular content source category, only mediaassets that can be processed by the target device are displayed on themedia player 100 to the user.

Upon selecting content from any of the content source options, mediaplayer 100 begins wirelessly transmitting the media asset that wasselected to the target device along with information about the mediaasset if available (e.g., file name, song name, artist, album, source,copyright, etc). The target device can display the media information onits display screen if one is available. The media player 100 transmitsthe media asset to the target device in a supported format asascertained in step 505. As previously mentioned, the media player 100can convert the media asset into a format that is supported by thetarget device if necessary and if the applicable conversion utilitiesare present. Steps 512-515 that deal with terminating a wirelessconnection and establishing a profile for the target device on the mediaplayer 100 are the same as described earlier during discussion ofmethods illustrated in FIG. 8A.

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of a wireless transmission method 560 via theInternet, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.The examples illustrated in FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B described how twodevices that are in within local RF proximity to one another canexchange communication, media processing capabilities, and otherparameters via RFID, establish a wireless connection, and exchange mediacontent between one another, either automatically (as outlined in FIG.8A) or manually (as outlined in FIG. 8B).

The example illustrated in FIG. 9 may be implemented by a media player100 that has an integrated network receiver 105 that can connect to acellular network, such as a Global System Mobile (GSM) network, andfurther gain access to the Internet. The example 560 depicts how mediaassets can be selected and targeted for transmission to anotherInternet-connected media processing device via a wide area network,comprising, for example, a cellular network and the Internet.Alternatively, the media player 100 can use its short range transceiver108 to connect to a local wireless access point to gain access to theInternet for the same purposes.

Example 560 requires the use of the media manager application on themedia player 100. The example 560 begins at decision point 561 where theuser is prompted on the media player 100 to select a media source fromwhich specific content will be selected for transmission to anotherInternet-connected device. The user is presented with options whichinclude, “incoming media” 562, “live-content” (real-time capture) 541,“stored content” 542, “Internet content” 543, “broadcast TV” 544, and“broadcast radio” 545.

“Incoming media” 562 refers to media which is being received by themedia player 100 in real-time from an external source (e.g., from anelectronic device in close proximity via short range RF, another devicevia the Internet, etc). “Incoming media” 562 may include, as example,audio, video, and image communication. “Live content” 541 refers to datacaptured in real-time using the media player's internal media capturecapability (e.g., integrated camera, audio recording apparatus, etc).Upon selecting a specific “live content” option, the appropriateinternal media capture functionality in the media player 100 isactivated. This allows media to be captured, stored on the device, andsimultaneously transmitted to one or more target devices. Having the“live content” media stored on the media player 100 may be auser-defined option in the media manager application.

“Stored content” 542 includes media assets that reside in the mediaplayer's hard drive 112. “Internet content” 543 includes media content(e.g., video/movies, audio/music, images, etc.) that can be selected fordownload from an Internet connected server or storage device to themedia player 100 and re-transmitted to a target device. “Broadcast TV”544 encompasses content received via broadcast frequency bands such asUHF and VHF. Similarly, “Broadcast Radio” 545 encompasses contentreceived via broadcast frequency bands such as AM and FM. “Local AreaNetwork (LAN) Content” 546 includes media content stored in recognizeddevices that are within short-range RF proximity of the media player100; the media player 100 may “auto-detect” devices in its proximity asdescribed herein, and have access to all/some media content stored inthese devices. The media player 100 is able to access the storageapparatus of a target device, obtain a complete list of files availablefor access, and also obtain information about each respective file suchas media type (e.g., video, audio, image, etc.), media title,artist/producer, date, etc. In accordance with the invention, the mediaplayer 100 can in turn organize the target device's media library intocategories (similar to those found in FIG. 18) that can be visuallypresented to the user to help locate specific files on the targetdevice. In accordance with the invention, the media player 100 alsoallows an operator to specify if he wants to provide open access tosome/all media assets stored in the media player 100 for specificconnecting devices or any connecting device. The operator can alsospecify the access method of specific media assets stored in the mediaplayer 100; for example, media assets can be enabled for download, “viewonly access”, or “listen only access.” “View only” and “listen only”access prevent connecting devices from copying the media asset, butallows them to still view or listen to the media asset.

Upon selecting specific media assets from the media source categories instep 570 the user is prompted (in step 573) to select the addresses ofone or more remote recipients to which the media assets should betransmitted. The user may be presented on screen with a contact list or“buddy list” from which to select one or more recipients of the mediaassets. In a preferred embodiment, the contact list or “buddy list”profiles contain unique addresses for target devices which can beresolved via the Internet, for routing over the global network. PossibleInternet address schemes include E.164 phone numbers and UniformResource Identifiers (URIs). As previously mentioned, the media player100 itself may have one or more of these address types mapped to it forresolution via the Internet.

E.164 is the name of the international telephone numbering planadministered by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), whichspecifies the format, structure, and administrative hierarchy oftelephone numbers. “E.164” refers to the ITU document that describes thestructure of telephone numbers. A fully qualified E.164 number isdesignated by a country code, an area or city code, and a phone number.For example, a fully qualified, E.164 number for the phone number555-1234 in Washington, D.C. (area code 202) in the United States(country code 1) would be +1-202-555-1234.

In one embodiment, media player 100 transmits a fully qualified E.164number and connection request to a media gateway within its respectivemobile operator's core network. The media gateway uses the ElectronicNumbering (ENUM) protocol to resolve the fully qualified E.164 telephonenumber for the target media processing device to a fully qualifieddomain name address corresponding to the target device using a DNS-basedarchitecture. ENUM (E.164 Number Mapping, RFC 3761) is a system thatuses DNS (Domain Name Service, RFC 1034) in order to translate certaintelephone numbers, like ‘+12025551234’, into URIs (Uniform ResourceIdentifiers, RFC 2396) like ‘sip:user@sipcarrier.com’. These URIs arecontained within NAPTR (Naming Authority Pointer) Resource Records sentto the media gateway in response to the DNS query. ENUM exists primarilyto facilitate the interconnection of systems that rely on telephonenumbers with those that use URIs to route transactions.

The service record may specify that the target user prefers to receivecalls addressed to a specific user (bob) at a server address(sip.sampleserver.com). The service field specifies, for example, thatthe Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) is to be used, in conjunction withthe E.164 to URI (E2U) resolution service.

The media gateway then picks the sip+E2U service and performs theassociated regular expression transform using the original E.164 numberand the regular expression. This produces the sip: URI. The mediagateway then uses the DNS a second time to translate the domain part ofthe URI (e.g, sip.sampleserver.com), into an IP address using a DNS Arecord.

The media gateway then opens up a session with UDP port 5060 on thetarget SIP server to complete the call setup, requesting a media sessionwith the user (bob) on this server. If the E.164 number was associatedwith a wireless device, the request may in turn be forwarded to thetarget device via a radio access network. Upon connecting with thetarget device, a secure, peer-to-peer communication session isestablished between the media player 100 and the target device.

In a preferred embodiment, media player 100 has a Session InitiationProtocol (SIP) framework operating on the device to facilitatecommunication using the protocol. The use of SIP for transmitting mediato one or more target media players connected to the Internet ispreferred as mobile operators are moving towards a SIP-basedarchitecture for multimedia services. It is envisioned that the use ofSIP for communication between two media player devices could leveragethe same SIP registrar, proxy, presence servers, and other relatedinfrastructure used to deliver real-time converged services within amobile operator's network. The media player's SIP application frameworkallows media player 100, in conjunction with SIP infrastructure at themobile operator, to simultaneously transmit content from media player100 to multiple devices over the Internet.

Capabilities discovery is an important feature of SIP systems. Similarto the capabilities exchange via RFID described above, SIP offers theability for devices to exchange media processing and other capabilitiesinformation using the protocol.

While the use of SIP for such purposes is preferred, alternativeapplication protocols may be used in lieu of SIP while still remainingwithin the scope of the present invention.

In step 575, after peer-to-peer connectivity is established betweenmedia player 100 and the target device, the selected media assets aretransmitted to the target device from the media player 100. Media player100 may simultaneously transmit media content to multiple targetdevices. In accordance with the invention, the user operating mediaplayer 100 may use the media player's control functionality, includingbuttons (e.g., pause, rewind, fast forward, etc.) for managing the userexperience of the media asset on the target device. In accordance withthe invention, the operator of the target device(s) may be permitted touse similar controls contained in the target device in order tomanipulate media transmission from the media player 100. In accordancewith the invention, information about the control functionalitypermitted for use on the target device is transmitted by the mediaplayer 100 to the target device before the actual transmission of themedia asset. This information could specify among other things, whatcontrols to enable on the target device and what specific buttons couldbe used to activate certain control functions. In another embodiment,the media player 100 may transmit a GUI-based control panel for displayon the target device, which can in turn be used by the operator of thetarget device to control the viewing/listening experience of the mediaasset being received from the media player 100.

Upon successfully transmitting media assets to the target device, theoperator of the media player 100 or the target device may terminate thepeer-to-peer connection (step 577).

Similar to the methods described above, the media player 100 is capableof receiving media assets from other Internet connected devices.

FIG. 10 is a functional diagram of a media player 100A wirelesslycapturing a video feed from an external video recording device 712, andtransmitting the same video content via a cellular network 720 and theInternet 730 to another media player 100B, which further transmits thecontent to a television 751, in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent invention.

In FIG. 10, connectivity between the video camera 712 and the wirelessmedia player 100A is initially established using the RFID setup processas previously discussed. The video camera in FIG. 10 has an integratedRFID tag-reader module and a wireless interface for communication withother devices.

The video camera 712 is recording a city landscape 711 andsimultaneously transmitting the video feed to the wireless media player100A in User A's domain 710. Using the media manager applicationoperating on the media player 100A, User A specifies that he would likethe video feed to be transmitted to User B's wireless device 100B. UserA selects User B's name from a contact list or “buddy list” stored onthe media player 100A. Mapped to User B's name could be an E.164 number,URI, SIP address, or other Internet-routable address which correspondsto User B's wireless media player 100B. All of these address types canbe resolved via the Internet to target the delivery of the live videofeed to User B's media player 100B.

User A's media player 100A is connected to Mobile Operator A's network720 via RF signal to the radio access network 721. Resolution of theaddress schemes mentioned above and connectivity with the target devicemay employ the use of Mobile Operator A's core network 722 which mayinclude among other components, DNS servers and SIP registrar, proxy,and presence servers, and other related communications infrastructureconnected to the Internet 730. Mobile Operator A's DNS systems may beconfigured to resolve the E.164 number, URI, or SIP address to anInternet Protocol (IP) address for communication via the Internet 730 ora private network. The IP address is further used to establish a SIPpeer-to-peer session over the Internet between media player 100A and100B as earlier described.

In this case, User B's media player 100B resolves to Mobile Operator B'snetwork 740. A SIP invite is sent over the Internet from mobile operatorA's core network 722 to mobile operator B's core network 741. Therequest is further transmitted through operator B's radio access network742 to the wireless media player 100B. Wireless media player 100B isnotified of the connection attempt (and possibly details of the mediaset for transmission) from media player 100A. Assuming the connectionattempt is accepted by user B, a SIP peer-to-peer connection isestablished between the two devices. Media player 100A beginstransmitting the video content to media player 100B. Both devices usebuffering and flow control technology to regulate the transmission andreception of media.

As User B watches the video feed from User A's media player 100A on hismedia player 100B, he may decide that he wants to watch the video feedon his television for an enhanced viewing experience and surround sound.The scenario 700 represented in FIG. 10 assumes that the television 751in User B's domain 750 has an integrated RFID module and a RF interfacefor communication with other devices.

User B, can simply press the RFID activation button 118 on the mediaplayer 100B and bring the media player “hot spot” in proximity to theRFID “hot spot” on the television. Wireless connectivity between thedevices using any number of supported wireless protocols isautomatically established, and the media content is automaticallytransmitted per the steps described in FIG. 8A.

In one embodiment, the television 751 is not able to process packetizedstreaming video content, but is able to handle a video broadcast signalusing its antenna receiver. As such, User B's media terminal 100Bautomatically recognizes the television's media processing capabilitiesusing the information captured during the RFID information exchange. Inaccordance with the invention, the media manager application operatingon media player 100B is able to dynamically convert the incomingpacketized streaming content to a broadcast signal (e.g., UHF, VHF) thatthe television can process using its own receiver and in turn display.

In accordance with the invention, the media player 100B in FIG. 10 hasan integrated short-range broadcast antenna and transceiver thatsupports UHF, VHF, FM, and AM broadcast and reception. The media player100 also supports the High Definition Television (HDTV), NationalTelevision Standards Committee (NTSC), Systeme Electronique pour Couleuravec Memoire (SECAM), and Phase Alternating Line (PAL) standards used indifferent parts of the world. In accordance with the invention, themedia player 100 may also have the ability to dynamically convertbroadcast signals (e.g., UHF, VHF, FM, or AM) that it receives into adigital format that can be streamed or otherwise transferred to one ormore devices over a packet network, such as an Internet Protocol (IP)network using the steps described above. In accordance with theinvention, the media manager application 120 operating on the mediaplayer 100 also has the ability to receive a broadcast signal (e.g.,UHF, VHF, FM, or AM) and convert the content to a digital format thatcan be recorded and stored in the media player's hard drive 112.

Returning to FIG. 10, the television 751 in one embodiment automaticallydisplays the broadcast content from the media player 100B, as the RFIDexchange may have triggered the television to automatically changechannels to one used specifically for receiving broadcast signals fromdevices in the proximity.

To prevent the broadcast from being picked up by other devices in thevicinity, the media player 100B, can scramble the content beforebroadcasting it. In one embodiment, the media player 100B transmits adecryption key for descrambling the broadcast signal in the RFIDtransmission message 450 during the initial RFID exchange between thedevices. The cryptographic techniques and methods for securing video andaudio signals is widely known and documented. Commonly used algorithmssupported by the media player 100 and used for encrypting digitalcontent include Digital Video Broadcasting—Common Scrambling Algorithm(DVB-CSA), Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), and Triple DES (DataEncryption Standard). The television 751 may have the capability tostore a “device profile” for the media player 100B to facilitate futurecommunication sessions; the “device profile” may contain the decryptionkey that was initially received from the media player 100B during theRFID exchange.

FIG. 11 is a functional diagram of a media player with an integratedvideo camera 100A, filming a city scene 811, and transmittingvideo/audio content via a cellular network 820 and the Internet 730 totwo separate media player devices 100B & 100C connected to differentmobile operator networks 840 & 860, in accordance with one embodiment ofthe present invention.

In contrast to FIG. 10, user A as represented in FIG. 11 selects tworecipients to which he wants the content streamed. This illustrationdemonstrates that the media player 100A is capable of streaming mediacontent over a wide area network, comprising for example a cellularnetwork and the Internet, to multiple devices that are alsoInternet-enabled. Content distribution to multiple devices via theInternet may be accomplished using the Session Initiation Protocol (SIP)and related infrastructure within mobile operator A's core network 822.

In FIG. 11, user B is shown to have established wireless connectivitywith two devices via an RFID exchange per the steps illustrated in FIG.8A above. The user B domain 850 is shown as such in order to exemplifythat an incoming video feed can be separated so as to present the imageportion of the feed on a television 851, and the audio portion via astereo 852 with surround sound. The ability to separate the audio andimage components of incoming or stored video is provided by the mediaplayer 100B. The process of separation is completely automated ifconnectivity is established with more than one target electronic deviceusing the RFID connector system and methods illustrated in FIG. 8Aabove.

User C in FIG. 11 is shown simply to be watching the incoming video feedon his wireless media player's 100C integrated display screen 102.

As described up until now, the media player 100 has the ability toreceive media content from a wide array of devices either in localproximity or over a wide area network. The media player 100 also has abuilt-in transceiver for transmitting/receiving content via broadcastfrequency bands such as UHF, VHF, AM, and FM. In accordance with theinvention, the media player 100 may have the ability to receive, forexample, television and radio content over these broadcast frequencybands and convert the content to a digital format that can be stored inthe media player's hard drive 112 and later accessed by the user via themedia manager application operating on media player 100. According toone embodiment of the invention, the media manager application enablesthe media player 100 to function as a digital video recorder (DVR). Thedigital video recording functionality can be enabled at the user'soption. When enabled, the media player 100 digitally encodes allincoming broadcast signals being viewed by the user, and a saves them tothe media player's hard drive, allowing the user to pause, play, rewind,watch video in slow motion, and perform other operations with liveprogramming similar to digital video recording devices such as TiVo orReplayTV.

The media manager application 120 operating on the media player 100 alsoallows the user to record specific television and radio segments atspecific times. The digital video recording functionality part of themedia manager is also designed to work with Internet TV implementations.The digital video recording functionality allows the media player 100 torecord multiple pieces of incoming media simultaneously. The digitalvideo recording functionality automatically records incoming mediatransmissions of video, audio, images, presentations, animation,Internet content, and other media types received from other externaldevices. The automatic recording of incoming content from other devicesallows a user to immediately begin viewing or listening to the receivedcontent without being prompted up front on whether he would like tostore the content on the media player's hard drive. This alleviates thepossibility of missing, for example, part of a live event beingtransmitted to the media player 100.

The user may decide after the transmission is complete or at some pointin the future on whether to retain the content that is presently storedin the media player's hard drive 112. If the user decides to retain thecontent, he will need to mark it as a file he wants moved to thepermanent storage area of the media player's hard drive 112 before anexpiration date. Otherwise, content that is stored on the hard drive viathe digital video recording functionality will automatically be purgedfrom the hard drive's temporary storage area after a set time interval(e.g., 1 month). DVR content that remains in the temporary storage areaof the hard drive 112 is automatically purged on a “first in, first out”basis based on a set expiration interval or some other basis as desiredby a user or pre-configured in media player 100.

The media manager application operating on the media player 100,supports standards based and proprietary Digital Rights Management (DRM)technologies. As such, the media manager may control certain copyrightedmedia assets and restrict its usage in certain ways. For example, themedia manager, may prevent certain content that is received on the mediaplayer 100 from being stored on the device (even temporarily with theuse of the DVR functionality). Similarly, the media manager may preventcertain content that was received, but permitted to be stored, frombeing re-transmitted to other users. Other types of restrictions on theusage of media assets could be enforced by the media manager applicationoperating on media player 100. Further, the media manager may permit theoperator of the media player 100 to impose his own DRM restrictions andrules on content he generates and transmits to other devices via themedia player.

FIGS. 12-20 are illustrations of exemplary user interface screensdepicting various aspects of media player 100 functionality.

FIG. 12 is an illustration of an exemplary user interface screen 600depicting “device profile” categories, in accordance with one embodimentof the present invention. The screen 600 depicts several devicecategories in which profiles of wireless devices which previouslyexchanged communication settings, media processing capabilities, andother parameters via RFID exist.

Device profiles may exist for devices that can generally be classifiedas either media processing units or peripherals. Media processing unitsinclude, for example, MP3 players, digital video players, PDAs,televisions, digital cameras, medical monitoring devices, printers, andcopiers that are capable of receiving and processing media assets (e.g.,video, audio, images, animation, presentations, text, etc.) transmittedfrom the media player 100. In some cases, these media processing unitsare able to themselves wirelessly transmit media assets to electronicdevices such as the media player 100. Peripheral devices on the otherhand, are devices that allow the media player 100 to extend certain ofits capabilities as a way to improve, for example, data input, visualdisplay, audio output, and other such functions.

Examples of wireless peripherals include, keyboard, mouse, joy stick,display, automobile computer system, and telephone (that gives the mediaplayer speaker phone capability when interfaced). When peripherals areattached to the media player 100 via the RFID discovery method describedherein, the peripheral takes over one or more functions of the mediaplayer (e.g., audio output, data input, etc.). One example of aperipheral capable of taking over multiple functions from the mediaplayer 100 is an automobile computer system. An automobile computersystem, may as example, extend the media player's user interface to thecar's display, the media player's audio output to the car's built-inspeakers, and the media player's control functionality to built-incontrols in the car.

603 is one example of a device category. The television category listingin 603 includes an icon that visually represents the category and acategory name (e.g., Television). At the top left of the screen is acellular network signal indicator 601, and at the top right is abattery-life indicator 602 for the media player 100. The list of “deviceprofile” categories in FIG. 12 is not meant to be exhaustive. Therecould be additional categories added to the list.

Category labels could also be standardized amongst device manufacturersas part of a strategy to create a universally accepted RFID transmissionformat 450 as previously discussed.

FIG. 13 is an illustration of an exemplary user interface screen 610depicting a specific device profile category in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention. This screen 610 shows the“television” category with two example device profile entries 611 and612. Both device profile entries show an icon to represent the device,the device type (e.g., TV), manufacturer name (e.g., XYZ Elect.), devicemodel (e.g., Plasma TV-123), and a description of the device which mayhave been set by the user in the device (e.g., Family Room). Deviceprofile 612 differs from 611 in that an auto-detection setting 613 isrepresented; this setting is currently turned “on” as illustrated. Thesetting indicates that the user has specified that he wants the mediaplayer 100 to automatically detect and establish a connection with theTV in 612 whenever it is within signal range. This particular exampleassumes that the television in 612 has, for example, a transceiver(e.g., Ultra Wideband) for high-bandwidth communication with otherdevices (such as the media player 100).

When the auto-detect setting is turned “on”, the RF signal indicator isrepresented in 613. It may be recalled from before, that the auto-detectand connect functionality may not be available for all electronicdevices, and is specified in the RFID transmission information 450 inaccordance with the invention. The auto-detect and connect functionalityis especially useful for mobile users, as their media player 100 can beset to automatically discover and connect with specific devices when inproximity.

One practical example of how the functionality can be used is describednow in accordance with the invention. A user may have a wireless mediaplayer 100 in his pocket on which he has his favorite music playlistsstored. Rather than listening to the music via a wireless headphone unit152, the user prefers listening to his music via a stereo system in hishome that has surround sound capability. As such, when the user turns onhis media player 100 upon waking up in the morning and selects the musiche wants to hear, and the media player 100 automatically detects andconnects with the stereo system for which a “device profile” exists onthe player 100. The player 100 automatically begins transmitting theplaying music to the stereo system so the user can enjoy his music viathe surround sound capability of the stereo system. Continuing with theexample, the same user may be ready to leave his home for work. Uponturning off the power to the stereo, the wireless connection between thestereo and media player 100 is terminated.

The wireless connection may also be dropped by simply exiting the houseand leaving the RF coverage area of the stereo (if the stereo's powerwas left turned on). Either way, the music playing on the media player100 is automatically paused when the devices lose RF connectivity. Upongetting in his automobile and starting the ignition, the automobilecomputer turns on its wireless interface. Similarly, the media player100, auto-detects and connects to the automobile's onboard computersystem; begins playing the music that was paused; and transmits themusic to the automobile's onboard computer system which includes a mediaprocessing unit. This example assumes that a device profile for theautomobile computer is first stored in the media player 100 inaccordance with the invention.

Continuing with the example further, the user may arrive at hisworkplace with his media player 100. Upon turning off the car in theparking lot, the wireless connection between the automobile's onboardcomputer and the media player 100 automatically terminates. This causesthe music playing on the media player 100 to be automatically paused.The user then walks into the building and to his office. As the userarrives in his personal office, the media player 100 auto-detects andconnects to a small desktop stereo, for which a profile was previouslysaved in the terminal 100 in accordance with the invention. The mediaplayer 100 automatically begins playing and transmitting the media tothe desktop stereo in the user's office. This example illustrates justone application for how the auto-detect and connect functionality can beapplied and used with RFID device profile information stored in themedia player 100.

FIG. 14 is an illustration of an exemplary user interface screen 620depicting messaging that indicates that the media player 100 iswirelessly connecting to a target device, in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention. The screen 620 may appear on themedia player 100 when an RFID exchange is initiated and the devicesattempt to wirelessly connect, or when a device profile is selected inorder to establish a manual connection.

FIG. 15 is an illustration of an exemplary user interface screen 625depicting the various options for Media Sources 626 that can be selectedin order to locate specific media assets for transmission to a targetdevice, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Themedia source options represented in the illustration and discussedpreviously include, “Live Content” 627, “Stored Content” 628, “InternetContent” 629, “Broadcast TV” 630, “Broadcast Radio” 631, and LAN Content632. Each of these media source options is represented with an icon thatrepresents the content type, and an appropriate label as illustrated in627, 628, 629, 630, 631, and 632. Elements of 628 appear in bold and arehighlighted in order to illustrate the user interface treatment for amenu option that the navigation cursor has landed on.

The screen 625 also shows at the bottom 635, all devices that arecurrently connected to the media player 100. In this illustration, theConnected Devices section indicates that there is a TV connected to themedia player 100. 635 shows an icon of the connected device, the devicetype (e.g., TV), the manufacturer of the device (e.g., XYZ Elec.), adescription (e.g., Family Room), and a signal indicator showing thestrength of the RF signal between the devices.

FIG. 16 is an illustration of an exemplary user interface screen 640depicting “Live Content” options 641 for delivery to a target device, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The “LiveContent” options represented on the screen include “Image” 642, “Video”643, and “Audio” 644. Each of these media options is represented with anicon that represents the content type, and an appropriate label as shownin 642, 643, and 644. As previously mentioned, the existence of theseoptions is dependent on the respective media player's media capturecapabilities. Selecting any one of these options has the effect ofactivating the appropriate media capture functionality in the mediaplayer 100.

FIG. 17 is an illustration of an exemplary user interface screen 650depicting “Internet Content” options 651 from which media assets can beselected for delivery to a target device, in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention. The “Internet Content” optionsrepresented on the screen include “Movies” 652, “Music” 653, “Radio”654, “News” 655, and a “Media Guide” 656. These options provide furtheraccess to lists of web sites or content repositories on the Internet.Selecting the “Music” 653 option may, for example, provide the user witha list of sites from which he can download digital music (e.g., AppleiTunes™). The user may have his login settings for certain musicdownload sites stored in the Media manager application 120 operating onthe media player 100 so as to allow the media player 100 toautomatically login to a selected site. The user may also have a creditcard profile or other payment information stored on the media player 100or with the respective music web site operator, in order to allowautomatic payment of music that is selected for download. Each of the“Internet Content” options 651 is represented with an icon thatindicates the type of content that can be accessed, and an appropriatelabel as shown in 652, 653, 654, 655, and 656

FIG. 18 is an illustration of an exemplary user interface screen 660depicting “Stored Content” options 661 from which media assets can beselected for delivery to a target device, in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention. The “Stored Content” options 661represent categories of media files that reside in the media player'shard drive 112. The “Stored Content” options 661 include “Video” 662,“Music/Audio” 663, “Pictures” 664, “Presentations” 665, and “Other” 666.There may be additional sub-categories under any of these options thatallow the user to easily locate specific media content. Content forexample may be organized according to genre, theme, artist, and otheridentifying characteristics. A search engine incorporated in the mediamanager application 120 allows the user to search for specific contentbased on various search terms such as type of content, file names,dates, genre, artist, etc.

FIG. 19 is an illustration of an exemplary user interface screen 670depicting “Video Files” 671 that can be selected for transmission to atarget device, in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention. 671 shows a list of video files resident in the mediaplayer's storage unit 112. The files may be organized according to anynumber of organization schemes to allow the user to locate specificmedia files more easily. 672 is an example of a media file that isselected for viewing. 672 shows the user an icon representing that thisentry is a video file, the name of the video (Paris Trip), and the datethe video was made (Jul. 5, 2005). Other information could also bepresented as screen space permits.

The user can select this file 672 from the list and use the left menuselection button 185 on the media player 100 to preview the video beforetransmitting it to a target device in accordance with the invention. Thepreview of the video is displayed in a window 673 on the right side ofthe display screen 102. If the user decides to transmit the same file672 to a target device in accordance with the invention, he may simplypress the right menu selection button 186 on the media player 100. Ifthe media player 100 is connected to the target device, pressing theright menu selection button 186, will initiate transmission to thetarget device. In another embodiment, if the user desires to transmitthe selected media asset 672 to a target device via the Internet asdescribed earlier, pressing the transmit button, will then prompt theuser to specify the target recipient's address. As such, a directory or“buddy list” of users stored in the media player 100 may be presentedfor the user to select from.

FIG. 21 a front-side perspective view 680 of a media player 100 with anexemplary user interface screen depicting a video playing 681 whilebeing transmitted to a target device, in accordance with one embodimentof the present invention. The video that is being transmitted to thetarget device is shown in 681. 682 provides information on the mediaasset being transmitted. Included in 682 is an icon to represent thetype of media being transmitted (e.g., video, audio/music, etc), thename of the file, the date it was made, and the time remaining in thetransmission. Also included in 682 is a sliding bar which visuallyindicates the amount of time which has elapsed in the media transmissionand the relative time remaining. At the bottom of the screen is a listof all devices wirelessly connected to the media player (as previouslydiscussed). In this illustration, it is shown that the “Paris Trip”video is being transmitted to the TV in the family room. The signalstrength of RF connectivity with the TV is also represented at thebottom of the screen. Finally, the front-size perspective view of themedia player 100 shows the keypad interface 195 used to control mediaassets and also interact with the operating system and softwareoperating on the media player 100.

It will be readily understood by one of skill in the art that variousphysical and functional alternatives are possible for the implementationof media player 100 of the present invention. As one example, mediaplayer 100 may comprise a device similar to an Apple iPod™ specificallycustomized to perform some or all of the functions of media player 100as discussed above. For example, an iPod could be customized to includeRFID functionality for receiving from and/or exchanging information withone or more target devices as discussed herein. In this regard, theexisting media storage and playback capabilities of the iPod can becombined with the RFID functionality and other teachings of the presentinvention to obtain the benefits and features outlined and discussedherein.

While this invention has been described in terms of several preferredembodiments, there are alterations, permutations, and equivalents, whichfall within the scope of this invention. For example, although theinvention has been described in terms of a wireless media player 100, itshould be appreciated that certain features of the invention may also beapplied to other types of electronic devices (e.g., cameras, musicplayers, video players, PDAs, cellular phones, game players, portablestorage devices, headphones, televisions, DVR/PVRs, VCRs, satellitereceivers, DVD players, stereos, radios, automobile computer systems,printers, copiers, fax machines, mouse, joy sticks, keyboards, displays,projectors, medical monitoring devices, home appliances, phones,personal computers, notebook computers, routers, switches, remotecontrols, and the like). It is therefore intended that the followingappended claims be interpreted as including all such alterations,permutations, and equivalents as fall within the true spirit and scopeof the present invention.

The foregoing disclosure of the preferred embodiments of the presentinvention has been presented for purposes of illustration anddescription. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit theinvention to the precise forms disclosed. Many variations andmodifications of the embodiments described herein will be apparent toone of ordinary skill in the art in light of the above disclosure. Thescope of the invention is to be defined only by the claims, and by theirequivalents

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of sharing data between a plurality ofmedia devices, comprising: executing a device discovery process betweenthe plurality of media devices by which device-descriptive data areobtained by a first media device from a second media device of theplurality of media devices; retrieving, from the device-descriptive dataobtained by the first media device from the second media device, asecond network address of the second media device on a communicationsnetwork to which the first media device is coupled to at a first networkaddress; establishing an end-to-end network connection on thecommunications network between the first and second media devices usingthe second network address of the second media device retrieved from thedevice-descriptive data thereof; transmitting a media asset from thefirst media device to the second media device over the networkconnection; processing the media asset with the second media device tobe output according to at least one media control command received bythe second media device from the first media device.
 2. The method ofclaim 1, wherein processing the media asset comprises: outputting themedia asset to a least one of a display and a speaker of the secondmedia device.
 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising: retrieving,by the first media device, media processing capabilities of the secondmedia device from the device-descriptive data of the second mediadevice; determining, from the media processing capabilities of thesecond media device, whether the media asset of the first media deviceis of a type that can be processed to be output by the second mediadevice; and converting, by the first media device, the media asset froma type not renderable by the second media device to the type that isrenderable prior to transmitting the media asset to the second mediadevice.
 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising: processing themedia asset with the second media device in a presentation modecorresponding to the at least one media control command so as to berendered by the second media device.
 5. The method of claim 4, whereinthe presentation mode is selectable from play, pause, fast forward,rewind, stop, skip back, and skip forward.
 6. The method of claim 5,further comprising: configuring a user interface of the first mediadevice with media presentation controls associated with the selectablemedia control commands; and operating the second media device inresponse to the media control command selected using the mediapresentation controls of the first media device and transmitted to thesecond media device.
 7. The method of claim 6, further comprising:receiving the selection of the media control command from the mediapresentation controls, wherein the media presentation controls of theuser interface are electromechanical switches disposed on a housing ofthe first media device.
 8. The method of claim 6, further comprising:wherein the media presentation controls are configured as respectivecomponents of a graphical user interface and rendered on a touch-screendisplay of the first media device.
 9. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising: rendering a graphical user interface on a display of thefirst media device; receiving a selection of the media asset with thegraphical user interface; and providing the selected media asset to thesecond media device from the first media device.
 10. The method of claim9, further comprising: presenting, on the graphical user interface onthe first media device, a list of media assets contained in a storagedevice; and retrieving the media asset from the storage device that isselected via the media asset selection control with the first mediadevice.
 11. The method of claim 10, further comprising: retrieving, bythe first media device, media processing capabilities from thedevice-descriptive data of the second media device; and excluding fromthe list of media assets presented on the graphical user interface onthe first media device any of the media assets on the storage devicethat is of a type not supported by the media processing capabilities ofthe second media device.
 12. The method of claim 10, wherein the storagedevice is remote from the first media device and is accessible over anetwork connection other than the network connection between the firstmedia device and the second media device.
 13. The method of claim 9,further comprising: presenting, on the graphical user interface on thefirst media device, a list of media assets contained in a storagedevice; transmitting the at least one a control command from the firstmedia device to the second media device to retrieve the media asset thatis selected via the media asset selection control with the first mediadevice; retrieving the media asset from the storage device with thesecond media device according to the control command received from thefirst media device.
 14. The method of claim 1, further comprising:transmitting the retrieved media asset from the second media device to athird media device of the plurality of media processing devices; andrendering the media asset so as to be output on the third media deviceaccording to the at least one media control command.
 15. The method ofclaim 13, further comprising: processing the media asset with the secondmedia device in a presentation mode corresponding to the at least onemedia control command so as to be rendered by the second media device.16. The method of claim 15, wherein the presentation mode is selectablefrom play, pause, fast forward, rewind, stop, skip back, and skipforward.
 17. The method of claim 1, wherein executing the devicediscovery process comprises: exchanging the device-descriptive data bywireless radio-frequency (RF) communications directly between the firstmedia device and the second media device.
 18. The method of claim 17,wherein the wireless RF communications are near-field RF communications.19. The method of claim 1, wherein the device-descriptive data arestored in near field communication (NFC) tags in the respective mediadevices.
 20. The method of claim 1, wherein the device descriptive dataobtained by the first media device from the second media device is via apeer-to-peer wireless communication connection between the first andsecond media devices.
 21. A method of sharing data between a pluralityof media devices, comprising: executing a device discovery processbetween the plurality of media devices by which device-descriptive dataare exchanged between a first media device, that is connected to awireless communications network, and a second media device of theplurality of media devices, where the second device is notcommunicatively coupled to the wireless communications network;connecting the second media device to the wireless communicationsnetwork according to the device-descriptive data obtained by the secondmedia device from the first media device; establishing a networkconnection on the wireless communications network between the first andsecond media devices according to the exchanged device-descriptive data;transmitting a media asset from the first media device to the secondmedia device over the network connection; and processing the media assetwith the second media device to be output according to at least onemedia control command received by the second media device from the firstmedia device.
 22. The method of claim 21, wherein processing the mediaasset comprises: outputting the media asset to a least one of a displayand a speaker of the second media device.
 23. The method of claim 21,further comprising: retrieving, by the first media device, mediaprocessing capabilities of the second media device from thedevice-descriptive data of the second media device; determining, fromthe media processing capabilities of the second media device, whetherthe media asset of the first media device is of a type that can beprocessed to be output by the second media device; and converting, bythe first media device, the media asset from a type not renderable bythe second media device to the type that is renderable prior totransmitting the media asset to the second media device.
 24. The methodof claim 21, further comprising: processing the media asset with thesecond media device in a presentation mode corresponding to the at leastone media control command so as to be rendered by the second mediadevice.
 25. The method of claim 24, wherein the presentation mode isselectable from play, pause, fast forward, rewind, stop, skip back, andskip forward.
 26. The method of claim 25, further comprising:configuring a user interface of the first media device with mediapresentation controls associated with the selectable media controlcommands; and operating the second media device in response to the mediacontrol command selected using the media presentation controls of thefirst media device and transmitted to the second media device.
 27. Themethod of claim 26, further comprising: receiving the selection of themedia control command from the media presentation controls, wherein themedia presentation controls of the user interface are electromechanicalswitches disposed on a housing of the first media device.
 28. The methodof claim 26, further comprising: wherein the media presentation controlsare configured as respective components of a graphical user interfaceand rendered on a touch-screen display of the first media device. 29.The method of claim 21, further comprising: rendering a graphical userinterface on a display of the first media device; receiving a selectionof the media asset with the graphical user interface; and providing theselected media asset to the second media device from the first mediadevice.
 30. The method of claim 29, further comprising: presenting, onthe graphical user interface on the first media device, a list of mediaassets contained in a storage device; and retrieving the media assetfrom the storage device that is selected via the media asset selectioncontrol with the first media device.
 31. The method of claim 30, furthercomprising: retrieving, by the first media device, media processingcapabilities from the device-descriptive data of the second mediadevice; and excluding from the list of media assets presented on thegraphical user interface on the first media device any of the mediaassets on the storage device that is of a type not supported by themedia processing capabilities of the second media device.
 32. The methodof claim 30, wherein the storage device is remote from the first mediadevice and is accessible over a network connection other than thenetwork connection between the first media device and the second mediadevice.
 33. The method of claim 29, further comprising: presenting, onthe graphical user interface on the first media device, a list of mediaassets contained in a storage device; transmitting the at least one acontrol command from the first media device to the second media deviceto retrieve the media asset that is selected via the media assetselection control with the first media device; retrieving the mediaasset from the storage device with the second media device according tothe control command received from the first media device.
 34. The methodof claim 21, further comprising: transmitting the retrieved media assetfrom the second media device to a third media device of the plurality ofmedia processing devices; and rendering the media asset so as to beoutput on the third media device according to the at least one mediacontrol command.
 35. The method of claim 33, further comprising:processing the media asset with the second media device in apresentation mode corresponding to the at least one media controlcommand so as to be rendered by the second media device.
 36. The methodof claim 35, wherein the presentation mode is selectable from play,pause, fast forward, rewind, stop, skip back, and skip forward.
 37. Themethod of claim 21, wherein executing the device discovery processcomprises: exchanging the device-descriptive data by wirelessradio-frequency (RF) communications directly between the first mediadevice and the second media device.
 38. The method of claim 37, whereinthe wireless RF communications are near-field RF communications.
 39. Themethod of claim 21, wherein the device-descriptive data are stored innear field communication (NFC) tags in the respective media devices.